- Symptoms: why does it itch? why does it swell?
- Mosquito bite: what diseases can be transmitted?
- How to relieve a mosquito bite?
- Mosquito bites: when should you worry?
- How to treat mosquito bite allergy?
- Prevention: how to avoid bites?
THE female mosquitoes are the main culprits of our summer itch. Their primary motivation is need blood to ensure the maturation of their eggs. Females are equipped with a mouth apparatus specially adapted for biting: the proboscis. Thanks to this thin and tapered proboscis, they can pierce the skin and feed on the blood of mammals.
But how do mosquitoes select their targets? They are attracted by a complex combination of factors, including body odor. Each individual has their own cocktail of smells, influenced by genetic, hormonal and even dietary factors. Mosquitoes are sensitive to certain chemicals in our sweat, including lactic acid and ammonia. These olfactory signals guide them towards their potential prey. In addition to odors, mosquitoes have taste preferences specific. Studies have shown that some people attract mosquitoes more than others, due to their body composition. For example, those who produce more uric acid or body heat are often prime targets. Mosquitoes can also be attracted to substances in certain foods or drinks, such as alcohol.
In addition, the environment plays an important role in the activity of mosquitoes. They are sensitive to factors such as heat, humidity And the presence of standing water, which favors the reproduction of the larvae. Common mosquitoes have a preference for dark, moist areas, where they can rest and find potential prey. This explains why the bites are more frequent in the evening or at night.
Symptoms: why does it itch? why does it swell?
here are the symptoms the most common, associated with mosquito bites:
- redness and itching;
- slight swelling around the bitten area;
- formation of papules (small bumps on the skin);
- feeling of heat, even pain (this symptom is however less frequent and less pronounced than itching).
As explained previously, only female mosquitoes bite to draw our blood which they use for their eggs. Their saliva is the source of inflammatory reaction of our body. To protect us, we immediately secrete histamine, a chemical compound responsible for itching. These occur within three minutes of the bite and disappear on average 10 minutes later.
Mosquito bite: what diseases can be transmitted?
If the common mosquito (Culex pipiens), which is the most widespread in France, does not transmit specific diseases, other mosquito species can be vectors of viruses or parasites.
- The dengue : this viral disease is transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes (including the famous tiger mosquito). It manifests with symptoms such as high fevers, joint and muscle pain, headaches and a rash. In severe cases, dengue fever can lead to life-threatening complications.
- Malaria (or malaria): it is a parasitic disease, transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles. It is characterized by symptoms such as high fevers, chills, headaches, muscle aches and intense fatigue. Without adequate treatment, malaria can be fatal.
- West Nile virus : are in question the mosquitoes of the genus Culex. Most infected people have no symptoms, but in some cases they may develop fever, headache, muscle aches, rash, and fatigue. In rare cases, serious neurological complications may occur.
- yellow fever : it is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes And Haemagogus. It causes symptoms such as high fevers, headaches, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to jaundice and liver problems.
- Zika virus is mainly transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes. Common symptoms include fever, rash, joint and muscle pain, headache, and conjunctivitis. The Zika virus is of particular concern for pregnant women, as it can cause serious complications in the fetus.
The prevalence and geographical distribution of these diseases can vary – fortunately, they are still very rare in France. In areas where these diseases are endemic, it is important to take protective measures against mosquito bites, such as the use of repellents, the wearing of protective clothing and the elimination of areas of stagnant water conducive to mosquito bites. mosquito breeding. In case of suspicious symptoms after a mosquito bite, it is recommended to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How to relieve a mosquito bite?
The greatest difficulty is to avoid scratching at the risk of causing the opposite effect to that desired: aggravate the itching and cause a lesion (or even an infection).
First, we start with soap the area to clean it, and thus avoid the risk of infection. Then the simplest is to apply cold on the bite: a cold compress or an ice cube wrapped in a clean cloth. This can help reduce inflammation, swelling, and itching, as well as numb the bitten area, which lessens feelings of discomfort.
There are also lotions or some soothing creams specially formulated to relieve itching caused by insect bites. Look for products containing ingredients such as calamine, aloe vera, or chamomile, which have skin-soothing properties. But be careful: apply the soothing cream only after washing your skin. Also avoid applying perfumed or irritating products to the bitten area, as this can make the irritation worse, and wearing tight or rough clothing that may rub against the bite.
an ice cube on the bite, a tea bag or a special insect bite soothing cream.
Natural remedies to soothe itching
Many natural remedies can be used to soothe itching. You can gently rub the area with a wet tea baga clove of garlic, a piece of potato or cucumber, basil or mint known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
The essential oil of mint is, as such, very effective. But the essential oils of lavender, tea tree or chamomile are just as good, to soothe itching and reduce inflammation. Note that before applying an essential oil to the skin, it must always be diluted in a vegetable oil (for example coconut or sweet almond oil), but also test it on a small area of skin in order to check that they do not cause an allergic reaction.
You can also apply Aloe Vera gel (refreshing and anti-inflammatory) or a dressing made from baking soda on the mosquito bite. The latter also has anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve itching. To benefit, prepare a paste by mixing baking soda with water, then apply it to the bite.
Another tip: drop a compress soaked in apple cider vinegar on the sting. Its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties will relieve itching. You can also prepare herbal cold compresses. For this, make an infusion with plants such as peppermint, chamomile or lemon balm, then let it cool in the refrigerator. Soak a clean compress with this cold infusion and apply it to the bite to reduce itching and discomfort.
Mosquito bites: when should you worry?
There is an allergic manifestation when the pimple grows larger than 50 millimeters and is accompanied by significant erythema. It can last several days to several weeks.
Cases of severe allergies of the Skeeter Syndrome type, anaphylactic shock with or without angioedema are extremely rare. However, the appearance of nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, drop in blood pressure must lead to medical emergencies without delay.
On the other hand, if the stitched area becomes very red, hot to the touch and painful, this may be a sign of an infection. Likewise if blisters appear all around, and you have a fever. These symptoms should prompt you to consult a doctor.
Finally, if you develop symptoms of a vector-borne disease (such as dengue fever or the Zika virus), you should also consult without delay.
How to treat mosquito bite allergy?
In case of swelling of the face and/or throat, fever, dizziness, itching that spreads over the entire surface of the body (signs of a serious allergic reaction), you should call the SAMU. However, the allergy remains very rare.
If the allergy is mild (localized swelling of the bitten area, itching), the antihistamines over-the-counter or corticosteroid creams can help relieve it. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice on choosing the right product and the appropriate dosage. And, as with any bite, gently wash the area with soap and water to prevent infection, before applying the lotion.
Prevention: how to avoid bites?
Prevention remains the best way to guard against mosquito bites. THE mosquito nets and the use of repellents (creams, spray, smoke coils, etc.) are very effective. Look for products containing ingredients such as DEET, IR3535 or picaridin, which are effective in repelling mosquitoes.
Between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m., the time slot when the risk of mosquito bites is greatest, it is advisable to cover your body with light-coloured, heavy-weight clothing. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors and can bite through thin clothing.
Outside, care should be taken to eliminate any pool of standing water where mosquitoes like to lay, to cover water collectors and to water the plants without excess. Empty plant saucers, buckets, old tires, or any other container that may hold water, and make sure gutters are clean and well-drained.
Finally, if you are traveling to areas where mosquito-borne diseases are common, find out about specific preventive measures recommended, such as vaccinations or taking preventative medications.
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Read also:
- Mosquitoes: the 3 colors that attract them the most
- Tiger mosquito: relieving a bite, presence card
- Wasp sting: what to do, allergy, difference with bees
- Mosquitoes: what attracts them?