Watching Out For Mosquito Bite Allergy Reactions

By Tosh Caliberni


When concerned about any difficulties, whether it is a matter of how to get rid of mosquito bites fast, in general, or a more particular focus on the prospects of mosquito bite allergy problems, the concern begins with the saliva. It is female mosquitoes, needing our blood to feed their eggs, which inject their saliva into our skin to make the blood extraction process quicker, easier and more subtle.

The chemical qualities of the saliva, that provide these benefits to the mosquito, cause reactions on the part of human blood donors. For most people this is the usual slight swelling and reddish irritation which is well known. There are a variety of measures you can take to address such reactions. Mosquito bites are never fun, but their irritation is usually only brief and timely measures reduce both duration and intensity. The mosquito bite is not a significant health concern for most people, most of the time.

Though rare, however, exceptions do exist. Despite the rareness of the events, though, there is a small chance of genuine danger, so it is wise to keep these exceptions in mind. Signs that a reaction to mosquito bites is not in the range of the usual are the appearance of symptoms such as blistering rashes, bruises, or excessive swelling at the location of the bite. The reference to swelling here should not be confused with a mere swelling of the bitten area. Rather we're referring to a situation in which an entire arm or leg noticeably swells up.

Skeeter Syndrome is the name given to these kinds of mosquito bite allergy reactions. When the polypeptides in the mosquito saliva has a negative reaction with the hosts immune system, this syndrome is the result. This non-contagious illness most commonly occurs among those who have a history of allergic reactions. There is some variation in the beginning of symptom manifestation from an immediate appearance to as many as several days. Vigilance requires being attentive to any sign of the following symptoms:

1. Red lump forming over the area of the bite; 2. Other bumps, and general swelling, are observed on areas of the body other than the location of the bite; 3. Hives; 4. Otherwise inexplicable bruises and blisters form on the skin; 5. Though not common, watch for swelling beneath the surface of the skin or mucous membranes; 6. Excessive itchiness may lead to excessive scratching and cause infection; 7. There is the danger of asthmatic reactions; 8. In rare cases anaphylaxis.

Certain people are more likely at risk for these kinds of intense mosquito bite allergy reactions. Among those with whom especial vigilance should be maintained, include:

1. Outdoorsy people are a concern simply for their high degree of exposure. Think particularly of those who engage in work or sports out of doors, particularly in areas with high propensity for mosquitoes; 2. Another group to be especially attentive of are those without a history of exposure at all, and whom therefore may not have adequate natural immunity to mosquito saliva. Young children can be a concern in this regard, as well; 3. The other major category of people likely at risk is those with immuno-deficiency illnesses such as AIDS, leukemia and lymphoma.

In the case of extreme allergic reactions, it is strongly recommended to consult your health professional. As a general measure, especially in cases where there is a history of allergic reaction, store anti-allergy medicines at home. Doubled vigilance is recommended when in areas with markedly high mosquito populations. Asthmatic reactions can be helped with oral anti-histamines. Rapid administering of medication ensures the greatest reduction of symptoms and suffering. When symptoms such as blisters, difficulty in breathing, short and panting breaths, manifest, though, it is necessary to see a health professional

And, in the unlikely, but not impossible, case of someone developing anaphylaxis, this must be treated exactly as it would in the case of a bee sting, with immediate hospitalization. While it is standard fare to joke about the harmlessness of mosquito bites, this is one rare situation in which such a bite can indeed be life threatening.

It is important to be aware of the worst case scenarios, but there's no benefit in stressing over it. The overwhelming majority of the time mosquito bites are innocuous annoyances easily treated with a variety of home remedies. We hope that those home remedies will be more than enough for you to enjoy your outdoors activities.




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