KnowledgeBooth.net | Mosquito bites – Symptoms, remedies, and management

Mosquito bites are itchy lumps forming on the skin after the insect feeds on human blood. Though some bites are considered harmless, others can lead to dangerous diseases. Only female mosquitos bite people for blood as they use it as a protein source for their eggs. There are certain mosquito bite products available that help people keep these insects at bay. Keep reading to learn more about mosquito bites and ways to prevent them.

Mosquito bite effects & symptoms
Usually, mosquito bites happen in areas not covered with clothing. Some common effects of mosquito bites include-

An inflamed or itchy bump that forms only a few minutes after the bite
Small blisters
A painful spot that resembles a hive and forms within 24 hours from a bite

At times, people may experience severe mosquito bite effects. These include-

Hive-like rash
The swollen, large, inflamed area
Swelling around the eyes

Treatment
Typically, mosquito bites do not necessitate treatment. You can use mosquito bite products like topical creams to relieve discomfort and itchy skin. But if the symptoms become severe after a bite, it is advised to consult a healthcare provider. One must also visit a doctor if one experiences symptoms like body aches, headaches, fever, or allergic reactions after visiting a place where mosquito-spread infections are prevalent. The treatment mainly depends on the severity and type of the infection.

Ways to manage itchiness caused by mosquito bites
Do not scratch the area where the mosquito has bitten. It may break the skin and expose it to infection. If the skin cracks accidentally, clean it with water and soap and seal the area with a bandage. You can speak to a healthcare provider if you have an infected bite. Usually, the effects of mosquito bites last only a few days. But some over-the-counter products or home remedies for mosquito bites can prevent itching. While home remedies for mosquito bites are safe for almost everyone, it is a good idea to consult a health expert before trying them. Some commonly used remedies for mosquito bites are listed below.

Ice delays the blood flow into the affected area. It lowers inflammation, itchiness, swelling, and pain. You can use the ice pack by wrapping the ice in a light towel and applying it over the area for at least 10 minutes to get instant relief from mosquito bites.
The gel in aloe vera leaves has salicylic acid that relieves discomfort and itching. You can directly apply the gel to the bitten area.
Nonprescription antihistamines are another popular mosquito bite treatment. Our immune system creates a chemical called histamine. The body releases histamine once it encounters an allergen reaction, which is responsible for the itchy sensation due to mosquito bites. So antihistamine is good for instant relief. You can apply it to the affected area as an ointment or cream.
Chamomile tea has dried chamomile flowers with flavonoids and terpenoids, which are natural chemicals with antihistamine and antioxidant properties. One can add the chamomile tea bag to the water and let it steep for at least 20 minutes until the water turns gold-brown. Remove the bag and squeeze it to release the extra water. Press it on the affected area for at least 10 minutes. Now, wipe the area with a clean cloth. You can securely keep this tea bag in the refrigerator and reuse it in the bite area anytime during the day.
Honey helps relieve itch and pain. It contains catalase enzyme that offers relief from inflammation. Use some unprocessed honey to cover the mosquito bites and seal them with a bandage to prevent mosquito bites from itching.

Prevention
Usually, mosquitoes live for two to three months. Most of them hibernate or die when the temperature drops below 50 degrees. In the country, mosquito season starts in early spring and peaks in summer but ends with the first freeze; however, they may be active around the year in some areas with warmer climates. To prevent mosquito bites and the diseases spread by them, you can take the following measures-