Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch?
Summer is here! With all the fun in the sun and the longer days, many can forget about some of the annoyances that come from the season. Mosquitos start to arrive in the string, but they’re quite prevalent all summer long. In the mornings and evenings when the temperature is perfect, they love to be a menace. Mosquitos buzz around looking for the ideal time to sneak up and bite you. The bites are always uncomfortable and will leave you itching and scratching. But, why do mosquito bites itch? Well, Bee Smart Pest Control is the expert on all pests, so we have the answers you’ve been looking for!
What Happens When a Mosquito Bites You?
Female mosquitos need blood to develop their eggs, which is why they’re after you. They take your blood and put some of their saliva into the bite. Their saliva acts as an allergen which is what causes the bumps and itchy feeling. Some people’s bodies are more sensitive to the allergen than others. In more serious reactions there can be large areas of swelling, soreness, and redness that occur. In addition, there are extreme reactions that include low-grade fevers, hives, and swollen lymph nodes. While mosquito bites are itchy it’s important to not scratch them. Scratching mosquito bites can lead to infections that can become serious. Also, many mosquitos carry diseases that they can transmit. If you’re having an unusual reaction to a mosquito bite then you should contact a medical professional.
Methods of Relieving Mosquito Bites
There are quite a few different methods of relieving mosquito bites, and some may be more effective than others.
Ice for the Swelling
Ice is one of the best ways to reduce any swelling. This holds true for mosquito bites. Use an ice pack for 10 minutes, then reapply as you need. This should help with the inflammation and swelling, and the numbing of the ice may help with the itching.
Baking Soda and Water
A mixture of baking soda and water can make a paste which helps with the itching. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to make a spreadable paste and put that on any bites. Leave it on the bites for 10 minutes and then wash it all off.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol can help relieve the itching with its cooling effect as the rubbing alcohol dries. It works best if applied quickly after the initial bite.
Anti-Itch Creams
Over-the-counter anti-itch creams and antihistamines are also an excellent ways to combat mosquito bites.
Call a Professional if You Don’t Want a Mosquito Problem
While these methods are useful, they may not be entirely effective. If you want to make sure you don’t have a mosquito problem, contact Bee Smart Pest Control. We offer many pest control programs to keep your home safe year-round, and Bee Smart Pest Control will help you get a personalized solution. Bee Smart Pest Control is a local business, so we understand the nuances of Colorado pest control and use chemicals that aren’t harmful to your family or pets. We pride ourselves on our safety and ability to relate to our customers on a personal level. Contact Bee Smart Pest Control online, or call us at 720-937-0527, to get a solution for your exact pest control problem today!