Everything You Need to Know About Baby Bug Bites

In the height of summer, bug bites on newborns are common and usually nothing to be alarmed about. Baby bug bites typically show up as small, raised red bumps on your little one's delicate skin.

Fortunately, most bites can be managed with gentle home treatments, such as washing the affected area and applying anti-itch cream. However, if symptoms persist or seem unusual, please reach out to your pediatrician.

Deciphering Between Kinds of Newborn Bug Bites

Here in Texas, the most common types of bites to look out for come from:

• Fleas

• Mosquitos 

• Ticks

• Chiggers

• Spiders

• Bed bugs

All of these insects and arachnids leave small, itchy red bumps on the skin. Some, like mosquito and flea bites, are generally painless and fade quickly. Others, like bed bug or chigger bites, can cause more pain for an extended period of time. Mosquito, flea, and bed bug bites usually itch, while spider bites tend to be more painful.

The three main ways to differentiate between types of baby bug bites are their appearance, location, and symptoms. Spider bites can resemble puncture marks, and bed bug bites can develop into welts. As for the location of the bug bites on newborns:

• Mosquito and spider bites can appear anywhere on the body

• Flea bites are most commonly found on feet and legs

• Tick bites are usually on the back of the neck, scalp, or legs

• Chiggers bites are typically in skin folds 

The good news? Any of these bites should fade from your baby's skin within a couple of days and shouldn't be a significant cause for concern.

Simple Home Remedies for Baby Bug Bites

Wondering what to put on a baby bug bite? Most bites can be treated safely at home. Here's how to care for your little one:

• Wash the area thoroughly with soap and warm water.

• Use a cold pack to help relieve any swelling or itching.

• Apply a hydrocortisone cream or antihistamine lotion to relieve itching, if necessary.

• Swaddle your baby to ease itching or discomfort.

With gentle care and treatment, the vast majority of bug bites on babies will fade within a couple of days! But if conditions don’t subside within 48 hours — or the bites appear to be turning into an infection — contact your pediatrician right away. 

When Should You Contact Your Doctor?

If your baby appears to be experiencing extreme or persistent discomfort, contact your doctor immediately. They’ll be able to prescribe an antibiotic, antihistamine, or suggest an over-the-counter medicine that will quickly treat the symptoms. Reach out to your pediatrician if the bug bites on your newborn are causing:

• Increased swelling 

• Spreading warmth or redness

• Red streaks up the body

• White or yellow fluid from the bite

• Fever

Most of the time, though, as you go about your day-to-day activities, baby bug bites are inevitable but manageable. We encourage you to take care of any new bites or scratches that appear, but you can rest assured knowing they won't last long!

If you’re looking for some extra guidance or help with caring for your newborn, don’t hesitate to contact our team! We’re here to support you day and night. Learn more about our services here!