Common Insect Bites on Treks and How to Handle Them

Over the years at Indiahikes, we have observed reservations among trekkers about insects on a trek. This insight applies not only to kids and teenagers but also to adults.

We share trekking trails not only with our fellow trekkers but with the diverse insects that inhabit them. When we venture into the outdoors, we inevitably encounter some common insect bites and understanding this reality is key to enjoying our time in nature to the fullest. 

In a similar context, recently when Lakshmi, Head of the Learning and Development team, was at Raithal, the base camp for one of our treks, she was accidentally bitten by a bee. The swelling lasted for almost four days, causing significant pain and itchiness. This experience made her realize how common insect bites are for trekkers and how important it is to know how to deal with them. 

The purpose of putting across this article is quite simple. All of us at Indiahikes believe that when you are empowered with information, you are less afraid of the things that can become a challenge for you on a trek.

Bee and Wasp Stings

This is a very simple formula for the outdoors: If you spot a bee or wasp nest, walk away calmly. They usually attack only when they feel threatened.

Moreover, the first signs and symptoms of an insect bite are crucial in identifying the cause. Whether it’s a bee sting or any other insect bite, recognising the symptoms helps in administering the right treatment.

What to do if you get stung by a bee?

• Remove the stinger properly: Bees leave their stinger behind on your skin. Instead of using tweezers (which can push the venom deeper), slide a card or a hard object across your skin to dislodge it.
• Apply a cooling cream: This helps with itching and swelling.
• Take an antihistamine: If an allergic reaction occurs, antihistamines like Avil or Fexofenadine can be administered. Both Avil (Pheniramine) and Fexofenadine are antihistamines used to treat allergic reactions, including insect bites.
• Monitor the swelling: It should subside within 4-5 days. If it persists, consult a doctor.

What to do if there are serious reactions?

In rare cases, an insect sting can cause anaphylactic shock, where your airways close up. Anaphylactic shock is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur in response to an insect sting, particularly from bees, wasps, or hornets. It can cause airway constriction, swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and even loss of consciousness.

People with a history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) should always carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) and be familiar with its use. It's also crucial for trek leaders and teammates to know how to administer it in an emergency since anaphylaxis can escalate rapidly.

Our observation regarding allergic reactions to insect bites

Trek leaders at Indiahikes are trained to handle such emergencies. Former Trek Leader and Experience Manager at Indiahikes, Sanjay Mistry, observed that “children are more prone to developing rashes due to insect bites, particularly from mosquitoes, ants, or bedbugs. Their skin is more sensitive, and frequent scratching can worsen symptoms.”

Additionally, It is always advisable for trekkers with known allergies to carry their prescribed medicines.

Leeches

Leeches are not common on many Himalayan treks except the Goecha La. They are especially prevalent in slushy areas of this trek, particularly during the first few days. At lower altitude treks like Benog Tibba (5600 feet) they are frequently found near streams. Other than that, in treks in South and West India, you will encounter leeches, especially during the monsoon.

how to prevent or treat a leech bite (video)

How does a leech bite?

Leeches bite by injecting a local anaesthetic and an anticoagulant called hirudin, preventing the victim from feeling pain while the leech feeds. This causes prolonged bleeding once the leech is removed. Since the anticoagulant thins the blood, clotting takes longer.

How to remove leeches safely?

Leeches can be removed using sanitisers or salt, but salt kills them, which is not a good idea. So, the reason why using salt is discouraged is salt dehydrates and kills leeches. It can make them regurgitate stomach contents into the wound, increasing infection risk. Vinegar, alcohol, or strong-smelling substances can have a similar effect.

Sanitiser may work due to its alcohol content, but: It can also cause the leech to vomit, raising infection risks. The safest method is to use a fingernail or flat object to gently push the leech’s sucker sideways until it detaches.

How to stop the bleeding from a leech bite?

Pressure dressings and non-porous bandages can be effective. However, our trek leaders have also observed that pressing a dry piece of paper onto the wound helps seal it. It is essential to use antiseptics to effectively prevent infection. 

How to prevent a leech bite?

To effectively prevent leech bites, applying tobacco directly to the legs and feet works wonders. High-ankle socks or leech-proof socks are essential for added protection. Tucking your trousers into your socks is another smart strategy that trekkers have been following and it definitely offers an extra layer of defence.

Ticks

If you have trekked in Central and South India, you need no introduction to ticks. Ticks can be dangerous as they carry bacteria and viruses that may cause infections. A few months ago, our CEO, Arjun Majumdar, had a similar experience from his Pench Tiger Trail trek. 

So, what becomes important is prevention and proper removal

How to prevent tick bites?

• Use insect repellent: Apply a repellent on your body to keep ticks away.
• Wear full-coverage clothing: Ensure there are no exposed areas where ticks can latch onto your skin.

What to do if a tick bites you?

• Remove it correctly: Pull the tick perpendicular to your skin using tweezers. This prevents the mouthparts from getting stuck, which could lead to infection.
• Treat the bite area: If swelling occurs, apply a topical antihistamine ointment. Cold compresses or ice packs are more effective in reducing swelling. For severe itchiness, an oral antihistamine may help.
• Monitor for symptoms: If the bite is followed by fever or fatigue, seek medical attention immediately. Tick bites can lead to illnesses such as tick fever.

Sanjay recounts an incident involving a tick bite that occurred with one of his fellow trek leaders at Indiahikes. Read through: “Having been a trek leader, I have encountered cases of tick bites among trekkers. However, one specific incident involved a trek leader named Aniket at our Manali campus during the monsoon season. Due to a tick bite, his entire leg was badly swollen and red, and it remained painful for 2-3 weeks.”

He continues, “If the tick’s mouthparts remain in the skin and an infection develops, get medical intervention as soon as possible. It is always advisable to consult with a doctor if you suspect complications.”

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are one of the most common insects you’ll come across during a trek. Unfortunately, there’s no way to avoid them completely, but you can take steps to minimize the risk of bites.

Prevention is always the key! Here are a few tips that have consistently aided trekkers in reducing the troubles posed by mosquitoes.

• Check for mosquito presence: Before your trek, find out if mosquitoes are a problem in the region you’re visiting.
• Use insect repellent: Carry a mosquito repellent, either as a roll-on or topical cream—whichever is more comfortable for you.
• Wear appropriate clothing: Light-colored, fully covered clothing helps reduce access points for mosquitoes.

In Conclusion:

This was all you needed to know about common insect bites on the treks. Write to me if you have any doubts or concerns. I would love to hear about your encounters with insect bites and how you tackled them. It would also help your fellow readers to make informed decisions.