With summer in full effect, outdoor activities become a common occurrence for those who enjoy having fun in the sun. It’s important to stay alert while outside, as dangers are lurking that may not be noticed at first. Texas is no safari, but it’s home to many critters that can pose a threat to humans, specifically insects and snakes. The wrong encounter could lead to physical discomfort from itching and swelling, or even worse situations, a trip to the ER.

Insect Stings

Insect bites and stings are generally uncommon unless the insect feels threatened. Most insect stings can be treated with basic first aid, while others, especially for individuals with allergies or sensitivities, may require immediate medical care. Take a look at the guide below to learn what insects to what out for, their potential dangers, and when emergency care is necessary:

  • Bees and Wasps
    • Potential Dangers: Raised bumps or welts, itchy or irritated skin, minor swelling, pain, or discomfort.
    • Treatment: If stung, remove the stinger, wash the affected area with soap and water, then apply a cold compression for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling. Use over-the-counter medications to relieve pain and/or itching.
    • Potential Emergencies: Some people are very allergic to bee stings. Reactions such as swelling of the throat, face, or tongue can occur along with a rash, hives, and dizziness.
  • Scorpions and Centipedes
    • Potential Dangers: Similar to a bee sting, itchiness, swelling, and pain will occur if stung.
    • Treatment: Wash the affected area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to address any swelling.
    • Potential Emergencies: Like bee stings, some individuals are severely allergic to scorpion or centipede stings. Allergic reactions include a swollen throat, face, along with hives and itchy skin.
  • Spiders
    • Potential Dangers: With over 900 species of spiders in Texas, most of them contain enough venom to cause some discomfort. Spiders such as the black widow or the brown recluse are considered potentially deadly to humans.
    • Treatment: If bitten by anything other than a black widow or brown recluse, clean with soap and water, and apply itch cream if necessary. If bitten by a black widow or brown recluse, seek medical attention immediately.
    • Potential Emergencies: Black widow and brown recluse spiders contain a type of venom that could kill a human being. If you suspect you or another person has been bitten by either arachnid, call 911 and/or visit your nearest Emergency Center immediately.

Snakes

Snakes don’t typically prey on humans and will usually retreat if encountered. However, they will bite as a defensive mechanism if provoked. Texas is home to over 105 different species of snakes, with 15 of them particularly dangerous to humans. Some snakes to watch out for include:

  • Rattlesnakes: The Western Diamondback is the most common and feared species in Texas.
  • Copperheads: While deadly, the bite of a copperhead is seldom fatal because of its short fangs and small amount of venom.
  • Cottonmouths: The world’s only semi-aquatic viper. It can be found in sluggish waterways, coastal marshes, rivers, ponds, and streams.
  • Coral Snake: The only brightly colored venomous snake in Texas, identifiable by its vivid red, yellow, and black stripes.

While a handful of snakes in this are dangerous to humans, one should still seek immediate medical attention if they are bitten by one, especially if they can’t identify the species. Symptoms of a venomous snakebite can include intense pain, tenderness, and swelling at the bite site. Some snakes have neurotoxins that cause more severe symptoms such as eyelid drooping, tingling in the fingers or toes, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness.

Treatment You Can Trust at Surepoint

If you or a person you know has been bitten by a snake, stung by a venomous insect, or has experienced a severe allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. At Surepoint Emergency Center, we’re fully equipped with the tools necessary to combat venomous stings or bites of all kinds. Here’s how we can help with any venom-related emergency:

  • Open 24/7: We’re available around the clock for any worst-case scenario.
  • Individualized Care: Every patient is different, so we tailor an appropriate care plan to tend to your every need.

If you’re going to be outdoors this season, stay alert and informed about the potential dangers that could strike at any moment. Some snakes and insects can be deadly to humans, so being knowledgeable about preventing bites and what to do if one occurs can save a life. If you or a person you know experiences a life-threatening reaction from a snake or insect bite, don’t hesitate–go to your nearest Surepoint Emergency Center, where you can receive fast and efficient care.

Surepoint Emergency Center is a modern emergency medical facility open 24/7. As an alternative to the traditional hospital ER experience, we offer convenience and minimal wait time, along with highly-trained emergency medical staff and state-of-the-art equipment.

Our top priority is bringing high-quality emergency care, quickly and easily to your family. We are committed to making patients feel better faster in a comforting and compassionate environment.

Expert convenient care in your neighborhood.

      References:

      Cleveland Clinic. (2025, June 2). Bug bites and stings. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/bug-bites

      Mayo Clinic Staff. (2024, August 8). Snakebites: First aid. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-snake-bites/basics/art-20056681

      Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. (n.d.-a). Bites and stings. https://tpwd.texas.gov/education/hunter-education/online-course/preparation-and-survival/bites-and-stings

      Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. (n.d.-b). Snakes. https://tpwd.texas.gov/education/hunter-education/online-course/preparation-and-survival/snakes