Spend a little time in the great outdoors during the dead of summer, and chances are you’ll be attacked by pests. While you might be able to swat most of them away before they do any damage, a few are sure to escape your wrath. You probably won’t notice what those pests have done until a few hours later when you begin to itch.

Bugs can be a problem in the outdoors. You can get bit or stung by any number of insects from mosquitoes and chiggers to bees and wasps to spiders and ticks. Mosquitoes usually do their dirty work when it’s wet out, at dawn or dusk or near water. Chiggers like wet conditions, too, and are most active during the spring and summer. Bees and wasps can be found just about anywhere, especially hovering near sources of sweetness like flowers and soda cans. Spiders can also be found almost anywhere, in particular dark areas. Ticks are common in wooded areas.

Insect bites and stings can be painful, but are rarely lethal. Female mosquitoes are the only ones that bite, producing red, itchy welts that usually go away in a day or two. Chiggers also cause welts, typically in areas where clothing fits rather tight, like the armpits, waistline and ankles. Bees and wasps sting, leaving the area red, swollen and painful. Spiders and ticks produce similar effects, minus the stinging. Ticks may remain and must be removed with tweezers.

Once bitten or stung, you need to identify the culprit and take action. Creams are available for most types of insect bites to relieve itching and other symptoms. Most people recover from insect bites and stings rather quickly. A few, however, may suffer an allergic reaction and require medical attention. Should this occur or you suspect you may have been bitten by a brown recluse spider, you should see a doctor immediately. Brown recluse spiders prefer undisturbed areas, like attics and basements, and will not bite unless provoked. Signs of a bite include blistering, ulceration and blackness. The affected area should be treated immediately to prevent further damage.

Obviously, the best course of action is to prevent insect bites and stings. Insect repellents are a good idea, and natural ones are available. In addition to applying a repellent, you should cover up when outside and stay inside during times of great insect activity. If, at any time, you think you have been bitten or stung and experience symptoms beyond the norm, see your physician immediately, Do not wait! Serious complications could arise.