Introduction
Mosquito bites are notoriously itchy, and if left unscratched, can lead to abrasions and increase the risk of infection. Beyond sheer willpower or overcoming the urge to scratch, the most straightforward and effective ways to combat itching from mosquito bites are with antihistamines or an ice cube.
Mosquito Bite Mechanism
When a female mosquito bites (they need human blood to nourish their eggs; males don't bite), it injects saliva under your skin. This saliva contains anticoagulants that help the mosquito draw blood more easily.
According to a 2012 study published in the journal PLOS ONE, footage of a mosquito biting an anesthetized mouse under a microscope reveals its brown proboscis searching for a pink blood vessel, puncturing it, and starting to feed. The blood vessel constricts around the insect as it sips its victim's blood:
[Image of mosquito proboscis feeding on blood vessel]
The saliva, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases explains, triggers your immune system to release histamines at the bite site, causing an inflammatory response that makes the area red and swollen. Your natural response may be to scratch, but doing so can break the skin, allowing bacteria to enter and cause an infection.
Antihistamines
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends using an over-the-counter antihistamine cream or gel on a mosquito bite before the itching becomes unbearable, or taking an oral antihistamine.
Look for products that list "diphenhydramine" in the ingredients. Both topical and oral antihistamines are widely available at pharmacies for a relatively low cost.
Ice
Studies have also shown that cold can reduce the sensation of itchiness caused by histamines. So, an ice cube rubbed over a mosquito bite can provide quick relief if you don't have antihistamines on hand.
Prevention
Given the litany of diseases mosquitoes can transmit, including Zika virus and dengue fever, it's ideal to avoid mosquito bites in the first place.
Other Home Remedies
If you've been bitten, try these additional remedies for itch relief:
Warm Compress: In addition to using ice, you can apply a clean, warm cloth to the bite for up to 10 minutes at a time. Note that this method is not recommended for open wounds.
Honey: Aside from being a common cough and sore throat soother, honey can be applied to mosquito bites to reduce itching due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Aloe Vera: Another household staple, aloe vera can help soothe mosquito itchiness much like it does with burns.
[Image of aloe vera plant]
Baking Soda: With its countless uses extending from cooking to cleaning, baking soda can also alleviate mosquito bite discomfort.
Basil: The aromatic herb not only adds flavor to dishes but can also effectively reduce mosquito bite itch. With fresh basil, simply crush a few leaves and apply to the bite. For dried basil, boil water, add some dried basil leaves, let cool, then dip a clean cloth in the water and gently wipe the bite. Some people may experience irritation from basil; if itching worsens or swelling becomes severe, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
Vinegar Disinfection: For centuries, vinegar has been used as a natural remedy for various ailments, from infections to blood sugar conditions.
Onion: Onion can reduce the itch and irritation of mosquito bites thanks to its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. Slice an onion and apply it to the bite for a few minutes, then rinse with water.
Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil is a popular ingredient in anti-itch products due to its cooling and anti-inflammatory effects.
Lemon Balm Oil: Native to Europe and Central Asia, lemon balm is a member of the mint family with many health benefits.
Chamomile Tea: Oil extracted from chamomile can help reduce inflammation and itching, making it useful for mosquito bites.
Garlic: Garlic, a natural ingredient used in remedies for everything from heart disease to high blood pressure, can be applied to insect bites to relieve discomfort.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most mosquito bites cause only mild itching and minor swelling, there are rare cases where a mosquito bite can trigger a severe allergic reaction to proteins in the mosquito's saliva, requiring immediate medical attention (known as skeeter syndrome).
Skeeter syndrome is characterized by inflammatory signs, including swelling, warmth, redness, and itching or pain. Those with skeeter syndrome often experience extensive redness and swelling from a single mosquito bite. Medical literature also describes cases where these reactions were severe, resulting in facial swelling, puffy eyes, and widespread redness and swelling of the extremities.
In the most severe cases, mosquito bites can cause bruising and blistering. Some individuals may also develop a fever or experience nausea or difficulty breathing.
It can be difficult to tell the difference between a person suffering from skeeter syndrome and someone with a skin infection because both conditions can cause redness, swelling, and pain, and both involve a bite. But while a skin infection typically develops days after the bite or injury, the symptoms of skeeter syndrome occur immediately.
However, those with skeeter syndrome are at higher risk of developing an infection because they are more likely to scratch the bite, resulting in a larger wound that must heal. So, if you develop a fever after a mosquito bite or if the bite appears to be getting larger or more inflamed and doesn't improve after a couple of days, see a doctor to rule out an infection.