A mosquito bite is a polite whisper. A horse fly bite is a screaming rock star that just shattered a guitar on your flesh. Right after the attack, you’ll see a red, angry welt that looks like a miniature volcano ready to erupt.
This is not a pale pink dot. It’s a definite “I’ve been wronged and I want a lawyer” shade of crimson. The center often has a tiny, dark crater where the fly’s scissor-like mouthparts did their dirty work.
The Swelling: A Bulge of Pure Spite
Within minutes, the area puffs up like you’ve been stung by a very spiteful bumblebee. We’re talking about a puffy, raised bump that can be as large as a quarter or even a golf ball if you’re unlucky. It feels firm and hot to the touch, like a tiny baked potato that hates you.
Don’t be surprised if the swelling spreads beyond the immediate bite. Your entire limb might decide to join the protest and get a little puffy out of solidarity.
