Mosquitoes are one of the most common spring and summer pests in Suffolk County & Nassau County, so encountering mosquito bites is a nearly universal experience. But with appropriate home treatment, they can be resolved in a relatively short time frame (typically within three to four days).
To expedite the healing process of mosquito bites, consider the following steps:
- Begin with a thorough cleansing of the bite sites using soap and warm water.
- Apply an ice pack in ten-minute sessions as necessary to mitigate swelling and itching.
- Incorporate the use of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, antihistamines, and hydrocortisone creams to address the itchiness effectively.
- To promote swift healing, it is crucial to refrain from scratching the bites.
How Can I Stop Mosquito Bites From Itching?
For immediate relief from itching, employ ice packs and over-the-counter (OTC) treatment. Incorporating anti-inflammatory medications or antihistamines can further aid in managing discomfort.
The manifestation of symptoms following a mosquito bite can vary, appearing within a few hours to a day after the bite. The itching sensation usually emerges promptly, with the bite initially presenting as a raised, white welt before settling into a red bump within a day.
Most importantly, resist the urge to scratch the bites! Doing so can actually make the itchiness worse as the skin becomes more inflamed. Scratching can also lead to broken skin and infection.
Home Remedy for Mosquito Bites
If you have one or more mosquito bites and the itching has kicked in, it’s important to resist the urge to scratch the bites. Doing so can make the itching even worse as the skin becomes inflamed and also lead to broken skin and infection.
For mosquito bite treatment, the CDC recommends washing the affected area with soap and water first, then applying an ice pack for ten minutes to reduce swelling and itching. Then, it’s recommended to mix a tablespoon of baking soda with just enough water to create a paste, apply that paste to the mosquito bite, wait ten minutes, and then wash off the paste.
When to Seek Medical Help for Mosquito Bites
In cases where mosquito bites lead to more severe symptoms, such as fever, rash, nausea, or allergic reactions, go see a doctor. While the majority of mosquito bites heal on their own at home within a week, recognizing and responding to more serious symptoms is critical for appropriate care.
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Why Do Mosquitoes Bite?
Mosquitoes bite humans and animals to obtain a vital protein found in blood, which is essential in their development and reproduction. They are usually opportunistic when it comes to who and what they bite.
However, many studies suggest that mosquitoes sometimes prefer biting certain people and animals over others, so if you feel like you may be a mosquito magnet, you’re likely correct! If you have type O blood, specific enticing body odors or bacteria present, higher than average carbon dioxide exhalation, are pregnant, or wear dark colors, you may be on mosquitoes’ radar!
Why Are Mosquito Bites Itchy?
Mosquito saliva contains two key itchy components: an anticoagulant, which prevents blood from clotting around the mosquito’s mouth – and proteins, which release histamine. Histamine is a compound that enables the body’s white blood cells to access an affected area. When there is increased blood flow to a bitten area, the body experiences inflammation, swelling, and, in turn, itching.
Mosquitoes use their mouthparts when biting a host. These are essentially like straws, allowing the mosquito to pierce the skin of the human or animal and draw their blood. During this process, the mosquito also injects some of its own saliva into the affected area.
Suburban Exterminating Protects Your Family & Home from Mosquitoes
It’s hard to enjoy the great outdoors when you’re scratching your mosquito bites. The most effective way to prevent mosquito bites on yourself, your family, and your pets is by reducing the mosquito population in your yard with a regular mosquito control service from Suburban Exterminating.
We are state-certified, licensed pest control technicians, and start by pinpointing the breeding sources around your property. Then, we treat your property every two weeks with our eco-friendly, child and pet-safe mosquito spray.
Whether you’re looking for ongoing mosquito protection for you and your family, or you need a one-time treatment, you always get the best value in mosquito protection with Suburban Exterminating. Contact us today and reclaim your yard this summer!
