Why is a Mosquito Bite Swollen?
WouterGetting a mosquito bite can be a painful experience. They can swell, itching, and even cause blistering. These are the signs of an allergic reaction. You should seek medical treatment immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
The swelling can be caused by an allergic reaction to the saliva of a female mosquito. The chemical ingredients in the saliva causes itching and localized swelling. The chemicals also evoke a fever. If you have a severe reaction, you may have a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis. Normally, these symptoms go away on their own. But if they do not, you should visit a doctor.
You should take nondrowsy antihistamines to control the symptoms. If you have many bites, you might want to try topical steroid creams. These creams can help reduce itching and blistering. You can also use baking soda paste to ease the itching. You can also try applying natural honey, which has been shown to reduce symptoms.
A person who has a severe reaction to a mosquito bite should also carry an autoinjectable epinephrine (Aleeve). You can get this medicine without a prescription.
If you are a child, you should consult a health care provider if you have severe symptoms. Benadryl is an antihistamine that can be given to children older than one year. You can also take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve the pain. You can also apply an ice pack for a few minutes.
If you have a mild reaction to a mosquito bite, you should not need to see a doctor. But if you develop a fever, cough, or throat swelling, you should see a doctor right away.
