Why Does Mosquitoes Bite You?

Often times mosquitoes bite you for the reason of spreading disease. They can smell carbon dioxide in your breath, as well as lactic acid and ammonia.

When they bite, the mosquitoes inject their saliva into the bloodstream. The saliva helps to keep the blood from clotting. The mosquito then leaves a small hole in the skin when it is done sucking. The hole allows the mosquito to quickly feed.

Female mosquitoes have special mouthparts that are designed to pierce the skin and feed. These mouthparts are filled with sharp bristles and a tube that inserts into the capillary. The mouthparts are also designed to cut a small blood vessel in the skin.

Some people are more susceptible to mosquitoes than others. This is usually based on the genetics of the person. The person’s blood type is also important. Some people have a blood type that makes them less susceptible to mosquitoes.

Another important factor is the temperature of the person. Larger people tend to generate more heat. This can make them more attractive to mosquitoes. In addition, the temperature of the skin may play a role in determining who gets bitten more.

During pregnancy, the body’s temperature rises. This causes pregnant women to exhale more carbon dioxide than other people. This increased amount of carbon dioxide attracts mosquitoes.

It is also important to remember that alcohol can increase the number of mosquitoes that bite you. Some researchers believe that drinking increases the amount of ethanol that is excreted in sweat.