Top Strategies for Mitigating the Irritation of Mosquito Bites During Summertime
Mosquito bites can be more than just a nuisance – they can cause itching, swelling, and potentially lead to more serious health issues. Here's a guide to treating mosquito bite itch at home and preventing mosquito bites.
Firstly, always follow the instructions on the product label when using mosquito repellents for safe and effective use. Repellents such as Picaridin and DEET are effective in blocking mosquitoes' ability to locate human skin or confuse their sense of smell [1].
To treat a mosquito bite, start by washing the bite area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection. Then, apply a cold compress or ice pack for 10-15 minutes to help reduce swelling and numb the itching [2].
Several natural remedies can also provide relief. Aloe vera gel contains hormones that help heal wounds, soothe irritation, and reduce inflammation [3]. Honey has soothing properties and can help reduce swelling and aid in healing and preventing infection [4]. Oatmeal, rich in compounds like avenanthramides and polyphenols, can provide relief from both itching and swelling [5].
Essential oils such as basil, thyme, peppermint, lavender, clove, geranium, white camphor, and citronella oils can help soothe itching and decrease swelling [5]. Toothpaste containing menthol and baking soda can provide relief from itching, soothe irritation, and reduce inflammation [2].
If allergic reactions are more severe, consider over-the-counter oral antihistamines. Applying oatmeal-based lotions can also provide additional relief [2].
It's important to avoid scratching to prevent infection. If swelling increases, the area feels hot, or you develop a fever, seek medical attention [2].
Mosquitoes are active at different times of the day, with some active during daylight hours (Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya) and others active during night hours (West Nile virus) [6]. There are more than 200 types of mosquitoes in the U.S., but only about 12 of them spread germs that can make people sick [7].
The best way to prevent mosquito bites is to always use repellent when spending time outdoors, regardless of the time of day [7]. Other prevention tips include wearing long sleeves, trousers, and socks, and avoiding areas with standing water where mosquitoes breed [6].
Some individuals may experience a full-body allergic reaction to mosquito bites, and blood type O and A are more attractive to mosquitoes. Other factors such as ammonia, lactic acid, body temperature, exercise, fever, pregnancy, clothing colour, and alcohol consumption can also attract mosquitoes [7].
Onions contain quercetin, a plant pigment that acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory, which may help in reducing inflammation and soothing the skin [8]. Witch hazel causes the skin to contract, reducing inflammation and providing a soothing sensation [2].
Garlic has antiseptic and antibacterial properties and can help minimize inflammation and soothe the skin [9]. Apple cider vinegar may also help reduce itching and inflammation [5].
References: [1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Protect Yourself and Your Family from Mosquito Bites. https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/diseases/repellents/index.html [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Mosquito bites: First aid, prevention, and treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-mosquito-bites/basics/art-20058438 [3] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Mosquito Bites. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/mosquito-bites-treatment [4] Healthline. (2021). 12 Natural Remedies for Mosquito Bites. https://www.healthline.com/health/mosquito-bites-treatment#natural-remedies [5] WebMD. (2021). Mosquito Bite Remedies. https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/first-aid-mosquito-bites-treatment [6] World Health Organization. (2021). Mosquitoes and Diseases. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mosquitoes-and-diseases [7] National Pesticide Information Center. (2021). Mosquitoes. https://npic.orst.edu/pest/mosquito.html [8] Healthline. (2019). 10 Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites. https://www.healthline.com/health/mosquito-bites-home-remedies [9] Healthline. (2019). 10 Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites. https://www.healthline.com/health/mosquito-bites-home-remedies
- Incorporating fitness and a healthy lifestyle may help reduce the attractiveness of oneself to mosquitoes by maintaining a balanced body chemistry that tends to repel them.
- The world of health-and-wellness offers various natural remedies for soothing the itch and reducing inflammation caused by mosquito bites, like aloe vera gel, honey, oatmeal, essential oils, garlic, onions, and apple cider vinegar.
- In relationships, open communication is crucial when dealing with mosquito bites, as some people may have severe allergic reactions.
- Science is continuously exploring the intricacies of mosquito behavior, uncovering the role of factors such as blood type, body temperature, clothing color, and certain chemicals, which may determine an individual's attractiveness to mosquitoes, impacting both health and skin care.
