Centipede bite
Centipede Bite
A Centipede Bite (pronunciation: /ˈsɛntɪpiːd baɪt/) is a bite inflicted by a member of the Chilopoda class, commonly known as centipedes.
Etymology
The term "Centipede" originates from the Latin centum, meaning "hundred", and pes, meaning "foot". The term "bite" comes from the Old English bitan, meaning "to bite".
Description
Centipedes are predatory arthropods that possess venomous claws called forcipules, which they use to paralyze their prey and as a defense mechanism. A centipede bite is not usually life-threatening to humans, but it can be extremely painful. It may cause localized swelling, redness, and in rare cases, allergic reactions.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a centipede bite may include:
- Pain: This is usually immediate and can be severe.
- Swelling: The area around the bite may become swollen.
- Redness: The skin around the bite may turn red.
- Itching: The bite area may itch.
- Fever: In rare cases, a person may develop a fever.
- Nausea and vomiting: These are also rare symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment for a centipede bite typically involves:
- Cleaning the wound: This can help to prevent infection.
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help to manage the pain.
- Allergy medication: If an allergic reaction occurs, antihistamines may be used.
- Medical attention: If symptoms persist or worsen, medical attention should be sought.
Related Terms
- Chilopoda: The class of arthropods that centipedes belong to.
- Forcipules: The venomous claws of a centipede.
- Venom: The toxic substance injected by a centipede during a bite.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Centipede bite
- Wikipedia's article - Centipede bite
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski