How Common is Mosquito Allergy?
WouterGenerally speaking, mosquito allergies are caused by allergic reactions to the proteins found in mosquito saliva. A small proportion of people develop clinically relevant allergic reactions to mosquito bites. However, most of the time, the reaction is not severe and may resolve on its own.
A person may experience a mild reaction to a mosquito bite, which includes swelling of the skin around the bite. Typically, the swelling will last for a few days. Some symptoms associated with mosquito allergy include itching, redness and pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, see a doctor.
People with severe allergic reactions to mosquitoes will experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, hives and wheezing. These are serious and need to be treated immediately. In severe cases, the symptoms can become life-threatening.
A doctor can test for mosquito allergy using several methods. A blood test or a skin test can help confirm an allergic reaction. A doctor can also administer a radioallergosorbent test, which involves exposure to an extract of the mosquito. If the test results show an allergy, the doctor can prescribe antihistamines or antibiotic ointment.
A severe allergic reaction to mosquitoes may cause a fever. Usually, a fever does not pose a serious problem for a child. A fever is a normal part of the body’s immune response to an infection. But if the fever is high or the symptoms are not relieved within twenty minutes, a doctor should be consulted.
