Regular mosquito control on your property means Mosquito Authority will help you avoid pesky bites that can be annoying for days. But we can only help you if you are in an environment that we protect. Any time you leave your home you may encounter mosquitoes.
According to Healthline, “when mosquitoes bite, they draw out blood while injecting some of their saliva. Their saliva contains an anticoagulant and proteins.
“The proteins are foreign substances that trigger the body’s immune system. To fight them the body’s immune system releases histamine, a compound that helps white blood cells get to the affected area. Histamine is what causes the itchiness, inflammation, and swelling.”
Not everyone reacts to bites in the same way. Some people are quite allergic, while others may not notice the bites at all.
There are many options to help relieve the itch. Mayo Clinic lists a few mainstream remedies:
- Apply a lotion, cream or paste. Putting calamine lotion or nonprescription hydrocortisone cream on the bite can help ease the itch. Or try dabbing the bite with a paste made of baking soda and water. Reapply several times daily until your symptoms go away.
- Apply a cool compress. Try soothing the bite by applying a cold pack or a cool, moist cloth for a few minutes.
- Take an oral antihistamine. For stronger reactions, try taking a nonprescription antihistamine.
For a few non-traditional methods, Mens’ Health recommends:
- Cold tea bag: Like ice, a tea bag soaked in cold water will reduce blood flow to the surface of your skin to take down swelling and ease itchiness. Depending on the variety, tea may also contain compounds called tannins, which helps reduce swelling. Dunk a tea bag in very cold water until the bag is fully soaked through. Gently squeeze the tea bag to remove excess liquid, and apply to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat as needed.
- Oatmeal bath: Oatmeal contains calming properties that moisturize skin and lower pH level to soothe irritation and reduce itching. Finely grind one cup of rolled oatmeal in a blender or food processor to make a flour-like powder, and sprinkle in a lukewarm bath. Or, get a premade option at the drugstore, like Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment. Soak in the bath for 10 minutes.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera works because it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal minor wounds. Purchase pure aloe vera gel or squeeze the gel directly from the plant. Store your gel in the fridge as the cold temperature can help with itchiness.