We’ve all been there when we’re trying to enjoy the outdoors and start feeling little pinpricks from buzzing mosquitoes. And then there’s the next day when you just can’t stop itching those angry red bumps. Why do our bodies react negatively to mosquito bites? Learn more about these bothersome flying insects and how you can prevent bites with help from Mosquito Joe® and our pest control services.
How Do Mosquito Bites Work?
What you may not know is that only female mosquitoes bite. Males have trouble finding humans and don’t require what’s called a “blood meal” to survive. Female mosquitoes, on the other hand, need blood to live and breed. That’s why they utilize factors like the smell of sweat, body heat, carbon dioxide, and other factors to locate their next warm-blooded meal.
Female mosquitoes are equipped with a proboscis, a sharp mouthpart that finds blood vessels, pierces the skin, and draws blood. The proboscis has two different tubes: the salivary tube and the blood-sucking tube. The blood-sucking tube draws blood in before red blood cells and water are separated. Water is expelled while red blood cells are drawn into the abdomen. Meanwhile, the salivary tube releases saliva. The saliva keeps the blood flowing and prevents clotting after the prick.
Why Do Bodies React to Mosquito Bites?
When our bodies react to mosquito bites, they are actually reacting to the saliva. Our immune system sees mosquito saliva as a foreign substance, initiating a reaction. It will then release histamine to rid the body of saliva. Histamines lead to redness, swelling, and itching as blood flow and white blood cells accumulate at the bite site.
There are varying levels of mosquito bite reactions that can depend on an individual's skin sensitivity, allergies, the type of mosquito, and more. Depending on how well you tolerate mosquito bites, you could have mild to severe side effects.
Side Effects of Mosquito Bites
Mosquito bites are small red bumps that pop up on your skin after a mosquito feeds on you. You may see just one bite or a cluster of bites, which can look like hives. This is common for individuals who are particularly prone to mosquito bites. Mosquitoes don’t just bite humans—you may notice them go after your pets, too. While frustrating, these bites usually go away within a few days and don’t require treatment.
However, some people have larger reactions that can be more serious, such as:
- Swelling, especially around sensitive areas like your eyes
- Infection with redness and warmth to the touch
- Hives or blisters
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Nausea
- Tiredness
When people are allergic to mosquito bites, it’s often referred to as Skeeter syndrome. Skeeter syndrome is most common in young children but can impact all ages.
How to Treat Mosquito Bite Side Effects
While many mosquito bites go away on their own without treatment, there are many different ways to help stop the itching and discomfort. Common techniques include applying an ice pack, using topical steroids, and taking oral antihistamines. For severe allergic reactions or infections, your physician may also prescribe antibiotics. If you get bitten by a mosquito and experience an adverse reaction, seek care and treatment to help prevent further complications.
How to Prevent Mosquito Bites
So now that you know what happens when you get a mosquito bite, the better question may be how to prevent mosquito bites altogether. Consider the following tips:
- Wear mosquito repellent, especially when you’re outside during peak mosquito activity
- Wear long clothing that fully covers your skin
- Avoid dark clothing that will attract mosquitoes more than light shades
- Utilize fans that will make it difficult for mosquitoes to fly
- Eliminate standing water around your property that allows them to breed
- Avoid perfumes and other sweet smells that can attract mosquitoes
- Seek covered outdoor spaces like a screened-in patio when mosquitoes are out
- Be aware of when mosquitoes are most active, such as during sunrise and sunset
- Plant mosquito-repelling plants like citronella, lavender, marigolds, basil, or rosemary
- Pursue professional mosquito control services, such as those through Mosquito Joe
How Mosquito Joe Helps Prevent Mosquito Bites
Mosquito Joe is dedicated to helping keep your yard bite-free with quality mosquito control. We will identify problem areas and spray your property with a treatment that usually requires around an hour to dry. During a free consultation, we can talk more about automated defense systems, barrier sprays, and other methods that might work best for your property.
If you’re worried about traditional mosquito sprays, we also offer eco-friendly options that are highly effective and better suited for those with sensitivities. Rest assured that our services are backed by our own satisfaction guarantee as well as the Neighborly Done Right Promise™. Whether you’re looking for a free estimate, are ready to book a service, or just have more questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today to pursue the comfort you deserve!
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mosquito Joe is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local Mosquito Joe location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
