Allergies to Mosquitoes

An allergy is the body's response to a usually harmless trigger that the immune system deems a threat. Almost anything can be the source of an allergy, from food to inhalants to insect stings. Although not as well known as a bee allergy, mosquito bites may also cause an allergic reaction for some people. It is possible to have a mosquito bite allergy and not know it, as the symptoms usually are not as severe as those associated with other allergies.

Cause

• Contrary to popular belief, the female is the only bloodsucker in the mosquito species, and she uses the protein in your blood to nourish her eggs. When she punctures your skin to steal your blood, she deposits saliva into the wound to prevent clotting. It's this saliva that triggers an allergic reaction.

Symptoms

• Some people are more sensitive to the mosquito's saliva, causing a pronounced reaction to a bite. A typical mosquito bite produces a red, itchy bump on your skin. An allergic reaction can produce more intense symptoms, such as a slower healing bite area or abnormal swelling. In some cases, the skin may blister or bruise, or break out in hives.

Treatment

• For most reactions, over-the-counter medications and ointments are effective to reduce the itching and inflammation of the bite. Topical treatments such as calamine lotion or a hydrocortisone cream help relieve itching, while an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine may help with symptoms from a stronger reaction, such as hives.

Prevention/Solution

• Use an insect repellent while outdoors, especially in warmer weather. Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, long pants and socks to minimize the amount of skin available. Lower the local mosquito population by eliminating all stagnant, standing water in your yard, as this makes an excellent breeding pool.

Dangers

• Severe mosquito bite allergies are rare, but they can still be life threatening if they develop, such as anaphylaxis. This causes extensive hives, wheezing and difficulty breathing, and may result in death if not attended to immediately. If you show signs of an extreme reaction, go to the emergency room right away for proper care.