Itchy bumps on skin like mosquito bites: What are they?

Several skin conditions can cause itchy lumps that resemble bug bites. These include allergic reactions, infections, and chronic conditions.

Most people experience this symptom at some point. Itchy bumps can appear as a result of allergies, infections, insects, and, sometimes, nonidentified factors.

However, there is one general principle that the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommend people to follow when their skin itches: Do not scratch it.

Additional general self-care practices for itchy skin include:

• bathing frequently in lukewarm water
• using gentle, hypoallergenic soap
• limiting exposure to the sun
• applying cold compresses
• avoiding tight clothing in areas where itchy bumps appear

Understanding the different conditions that can cause itchy bumps on the skin can help people get appropriate treatment. Depending on the cause, treatment can range from avoiding certain foods to taking prescription medications.

Keep reading to learn more about some common causes of itchy bumps that look like mosquito bites and how to treat them.

The medical term for hives is urticaria, and it describes a condition that produces raised itchy areas on the skin. If a person notices bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites but has not had any exposure to mosquitos, the cause is probably acute urticaria. The term “acute” means that the condition does not last longer than 6 weeks.

Hives are very common, affecting about 20% of people at some point in their lives. Certain kinds of foods, such as peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood, cause hives in many people due to an allergic reaction. Latex, pollen, insects, various plants, and some medications, such as sulfa drugs or even aspirin, may also cause hives.

Hives cause characteristic red, purple, or skin colored itchy bumps that appear and disappear quickly anywhere on the body. These bumps typically turn white or disappear when a person presses them.

Treatment

The treatment for hives depends on the severity and cause of the rash, but it includes avoiding known triggers. People who are extremely allergic to a trigger — for example, peanuts or certain insects — may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an Epipen. This device can stop a potentially life threatening reaction if a person has accidental contact with a known allergen.

Anti-itching lotions and over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines can provide relief for mild symptoms, while more intense outbreaks may require stronger prescription versions of these drugs or corticosteroids.

Learn more about hives here.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bed bug bites can resemble bites from other bugs, although they can take as long as 2 weeks to materialize.

People who notice itchy bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites should check for:

• other signs of bed bugs
• bed bugs themselves on a mattress or sheet
• dead bed bugs
• blood spots on a mattress or sheet
• the characteristic musty smell associated with bed bugs

If the bites appear in a straight line, they are likely to be due to bed bugs. However, bed bug bugs can also appear in more random formations.

Treatment

Unless someone has a severe allergic reaction, experts recommend simple self-care practices to treat any bites. These include not scratching, applying OTC antiseptic ointments, and taking antihistamines.

Learn more about bed bugs here.

Contact dermatitis is essentially an allergic reaction that develops when a person’s skin comes into contact with something to which they are allergic, such as latex or certain metals or household products.

It can take 1–2 days for the reaction to develop and 2–3 weeks for symptoms to disappear. Contact dermatitis may hurt as much as it itches, and it may present with inflammation and blisters.

Treatment

Self-care with cold compresses, calamine lotion, and soothing baths can help provide relief.

Prescription medication, such as antihistamines and cortisone, may be necessary if the reaction is severe.

Working with healthcare professionals can help people identify their triggers, which can be complicated.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, there are more than 3,700 substances known to cause contact allergies. Avoiding triggers is a key part of managing contact dermatitis, along with thoroughly washing the affected area with soap and water after exposure happens.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

The human itch mite is responsible for scabies. This mite digs its way through the top layer of the skin and lays eggs. Its tunnels can sometimes be visible on the surface of the skin, where they appear as raised, crooked, skin colored lines. However, the most common symptom of scabies is itchy bumps on the skin. These are like mosquito bites, only smaller.

Sites of the body that this very itchy condition commonly affects include the wrists, the elbows, between the fingers, and behind the knees.

Treatment

Only a prescription lotion will treat scabies effectively, and individuals need to follow the application directions exactly. Anyone who has had extensive skin-to-skin contact with someone with scabies should also seek treatment.

It is very important that people with scabies thoroughly wash and dry all of their clothes, towels, sheets, bedding, and other household items. Other remedies for scabies may also help.

Learn more about scabies here.

Also known as atopic dermatitis, this common condition causes itchy, red, irritated skin that can sometimes develop bumps. In the long term, it can make the skin thicker, scaly, and flaky, as well as causing it to change color.

Scratching makes eczema worse and increases the risk of infection. Eczema occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, which prompt the immune system to overreact to certain triggers, such as laundry soap or sweating. It typically affects the face, elbows, knees, scalp, and backs of the hands.

Treatment

According to the National Eczema Association, treating eczema calls for a mix of self-care, OTC drugs, and prescription medications. People with eczema can identify and learn to manage or avoid triggers for their outbreaks.

Changing bathing practices and using moisturizer can also help. Prescription lotions, systemic medications, UVB light, and biologics can address more severe symptoms.

Learn more about the different types of eczema here.

Skin problems, such as itchy bumps on the skin similar to mosquito bites, can range from mild to severe.

Some issues, including bed bug bites, can be fleeting, while others, such as allergic reactions to certain foods, are signs of a permanent condition. However, most skin problems generally respond well to treatment.

If the symptoms do not improve with self-care practices, people should see a medical professional to determine what is causing the outbreak and how to treat it.

How to Prevent & Treat (Infographic)

You try your best to prevent them, but bug bites happen. Between the stings, swelling and itching, it can be hard to know which type of bug is to blame and how to treat symptoms. Amanda Robinson, ARNP, UnityPoint Health, identifies common bug bites and how to prevent them.

Types of Bug Bites

Identifying bug bites isn’t always easy, and depending on the type of bite, symptoms can vary. Robinson says, regardless of what bug bit you, the bites typically have similar characteristics, including pain, itching, swelling and redness. Some common bug bites include bed bugs, mosquitos, ticks and chiggers. Here are a few tips to help you figure out what bit you:

• Bed bug bites. Look for clusters of bug bite marks together on the face, neck, arms, hands or any other body parts, especially after sleeping. They resemble mosquito bites and are often itchy and appear slightly swollen and red. Some people have no reaction to bed bugs and won’t notice bite marks. Bed bug bites don’t always show up immediately and can take up to two weeks to develop in some people. Bed bugs don’t spread disease.
• Mosquito bites. Appears as a slightly swollen and red area that may itch and be irritating. The symptoms usually develop quickly after being bitten and get progressively worse over 8-12 hours. Mosquito bites don’t usually appear in clusters. It may take up to 10 days for a bite to completely heal. While mosquito bites may happen any time of the day, this pest is most active during warmer months in the early morning and in the evenings — when it’s cooler. Mosquitos spread disease including Zika virus, West Nile virus, malaria, Chikungunya virus and dengue.
• Tick bites. You may notice a tick bite, because you can still see the tick attached. If it dropped off, you might see a red spot or rash near the bite, which could itch and burn. However, many tick bites don’t have symptoms. If you notice more severe, flu-like symptoms call your doctor. Ticks carry Lyme disease.
• Chigger bites. These bites usually show up in clusters. They like warm, moist areas of the body — like on the ankles where socks fit tightly, around the waste and near the groin. You might notice red skin with bumps, blisters or a hive-like rash not long after being in grassy or wooded areas. Chiggers aren’t dangerous and don’t spread disease.

“Rarely, bee stings can cause an allergic reaction in people, which can lead to a condition called anaphylactic shock,” Robinson says. “Symptoms of anaphylactic shock include hives, wheezing, shortness of breath and abdominal pain. Without appropriate care, death could result. Individuals who are allergic to bee stings should always carry an Epi-Pen with them.”

Bug Bites While Sleeping

Getting bug bites at night, especially when you’re asleep is no fun. There are three likely sources for bug bites at night — spiders, mosquitos or bed bugs. Spiders and mosquitos usually find their way into your home — and into your bedroom — during the warmer months.

“Honestly, many mosquito and spider bites look similar. With a new spider bite, you may see two distinct dots from the spider’s fang. Spider bites also tend to swell in more of a circular shape and mosquito welts look more uneven. For symptoms, spider bites often come with more pain, but both can be itchy,” Robinson says.

If you experience bug bites in clusters at night, make sure to check your bed for bed bugs. Pull back the sheets to look for any of the reddish, brown bugs, particularly focusing on reviewing the seams and the head of the bed.

How to Prevent Bug Bites

“As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. While some bug bites can’t really be prevented, there are proven ways to guard off others,” Robinson says.

Using insect repellent can be an effective prevention method, but only for certain bugs.

• Non-preventable. Unfortunately, repellents aren’t effective against stinging insects, such as bees, wasps or hornets. They also don’t keep spiders away. You really can’t prevent stings or bites from these pests, other than staying away from areas of known infestation.
• Preventable. Repellents are extremely useful in keeping mosquitoes, biting flies, gnats, fleas, chiggers and ticks away.

Mosquito repellents containing picaridin and DEET are the most recommended forms of prevention. Wristbands, stickers or other wearables containing repellent are not as effective, regardless of the repellent type used. 

“If you’re specifically trying to fend off ticks, products with DEET are best. You may also consider permethrin-treated clothing and gear. For pests like gnats and mosquitos, using either DEET, picaridin or PMD (para-Menthane-3,8-diol) products work well. If you’re trying to go all-natural, lemon eucalyptus oil is a great option. It’s safe for use on children over the age of 3,” Robinson says.

Robinson offers these tips when using bug spray:

• Lightly cover skin. Use just enough to lightly cover, but not saturate, your skin. If you’re using with sunscreen, apply the sunscreen before the bug spray. Frequent reapplication of repellent isn’t necessary.
• Don’t apply under clothing. Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, clothing or both, but not under clothing.
• Wash your hands. Clean your hands after applying repellent, and don’t apply it to the hands of small children, as they will end up rubbing their eyes.
• Not for everyone. Some products, especially those with higher DEET contents aren’t for very young children. Read the label to make sure you’re using products safely.

How to Treat Bug Bites

From ice to oatmeal and even honey — there are plenty of home remedies you can try to help relieve itching bug bites. 

“Start by using cold compresses for stings or bites. An over-the-counter cortisone cream is great for itching. If these options don’t provide enough relief, consider a trip to urgent care for a prescription cream or ointment. If you believe your bug bite is infected, definitely come see us,” Robinson says. 

DIROFILARIOSIS-PARASITIC DISEASE

Published: 17.06.2015

The mosquito season has begun. And if you
have not yet felt the obsessive attention of little bloodsuckers in their own
apartment, then, once in nature, you will definitely encounter them. To such
the meeting does not hurt to prepare, especially if there are atypical reactions to
mosquito bites. In addition to the usual allergy to an insect bite (itching, swelling,
redness), symptoms of general malaise, pain at the bite site,
unpleasant and alarming “movements” under the skin. It might not be
other than dirofilariasis .

Dirofilariasis is more common in areas with a warm and humid climate:
southern Europe, the countries of the Balkan Peninsula, Turkey, Africa, India. In Russia, dirofilariasis was registered in the southern
regions: in the Krasnodar and Stavropol Territories, the republics of the Northern
Caucasus, Astrakhan, Volgograd, Rostov, Lipetsk, Voronezh
regions, as well as Primorsky and Khabarovsk territories. In recent years
the parasite spread in
more northern regions of Russia. In Belarus annually
3–7 cases of dirofilariasis are detected. The most common disease occurs in
Gomel region.

Dirofilariasis —
a rare type of helminthiasis, in which the parasite is introduced under the skin and migrates along
body. For this disease
characterized by slow development and a long chronic course, accompanied by
complications in the heart, liver and kidneys.

Pathogen – immature nematode
Dirofilaria repens (roundworm). The parasite has a filamentous body
light yellow in color, tapering towards both ends, their larvae, called dirofilariae,
have a length of 0.22-0.30 mm. The length of an adult female
17–20 cm, width – 0.3–0.7 cm. Males are slightly smaller – 7 cm and 0.45 cm, respectively.

Microfilariae vector are
mosquitoes of various types incl. and mosquitoes that live year-round in warm and
basements of apartment buildings. They fly into the ventilation
systems in apartments and feed on humans and pets. Thus,
if there is a sick dog or cat in a city apartment, the transmission of infestation
can be carried from them to the person.

Main sources
infestations for humans are dogs. The disease also occurs in
foxes, ferrets, cats. Infection of dogs and other carnivores occurs in
in the process of feeding on them mosquitoes infested with dirofilaria larvae. IN
within 3 months, the larvae develop in the subcutaneous fat and connective
animal tissues, shed twice and penetrate into the bloodstream. By circulatory
system, the larvae migrate to the heart and pulmonary artery, where after 3-4 months
reach sexual maturity and become capable of producing larvae. Female
Dirofilaria gives birth to up to 30,000 larvae every day. microfilariae,
circulating in the blood of infested animals are non-invasive and do not
pose an immediate danger to other animals or humans.

For further
development, these parasites must be ingested by mosquitoes. The period of development of the larva in a mosquito to the invasive stage is about 17 days.

A person is infected by the bite of a mosquito that carries
contain dirofilaria larvae. Infestation
people, as a rule, occurs during agricultural work or recreation on
nature, where there are affected animals and mosquito colonies. More often
this happens during the period of insect activity (May-September). Increasing quantity
identified invasions in humans in recent years due to the growth of vagrant
animals, their mass migration between settlements, the process
urbanization, climate warming. All of these factors contribute to the transmission
parasite from wild animals to domestic and human.

Usually in the human body parasitizes one
helminth.

In rare cases, 2-3 helminths parasitize humans,
which, apparently, is associated with repeated cases of infection. In humans
the female helminth grows into an adult, but the “children” – dirofilaria –
does not give birth, therefore this disease is from a person
not transmitted to humans. Once in the body, the parasite reaches
largest in six months and is located under the skin (mucosa
shell), where a capsule of connective tissue is formed around it. IN
further the female gradually dies and collapses. The parasite is very
active: moves in the body at a speed of 10–30 cm per day. Clinical
symptoms

From
from the moment of infection until the manifestation of the main typical clinical symptom (movement of the pathogen, or
seals with it) passes from 1 month
up to several years.

Dirofilariasis manifests itself by migration through the body
parasite.

Later
a few days at the site of a mosquito bite, a small dense formation appears,
which may be accompanied by itching. Then it gradually increases
reaching a diameter of up to four centimeters. There is slight redness and
swelling of the skin over it, increased itching and pain. With the development of inflammation, the nodule
softens, suppurates, an abscess may form, on top of which
a hole appears from which the end of the worm protrudes.

When the parasite moves to its old place of residence, no
no traces remain, and a seal appears in the new area. There are symptoms of general intoxication: weakness, malaise,
headache, nausea, fever. An important symptom is migratory on palpation.
the knot is very mobile. Such a nodule persists for 2-3 months and periodically
disappears. All these sensations are present until the helminth around
a capsule will form.

Cases of localization of dirofilarial nodules in the area
head, neck, abdomen, popliteal region, thigh and other places.

Almost half of the cases of dirofilariasis involve
in the pathological process of the organs of vision.
Eye damage may be the only manifestation of the disease.
Helminths are localized and migrate in the subcutaneous tissue of the eyelid or under
conjunctiva. A knot (granuloma) is formed around the helminth, edema develops.
With the localization of the helminth in the subcutaneous tissue of the eyelids, a limited
tumor-like swelling, as a rule, with mild inflammatory
phenomena. The presence of the parasite under the conjunctiva causes phenomena
conjunctivitis. The disease can lead to severe hyperemia of the conjunctiva,
significant tearing. With the development of a granuloma in the orbit, pain is noted,
edema, erythema, exophthalmos, diplopia. Human can
completely lose sight.

Usually patients do not attach importance to the strange “pimple”.
After 1-3 months, when they begin to feel movement in that area or if
infiltrate appears on the face, they seek medical help.

Diagnostics. Specific
there is no diagnosis of dirofilaria detection. One of the diagnostic symptoms: the presence
feeling that a living thing is moving or crawling inside a dense formation
creature.

The final diagnosis is established only after the removal of the helminth, followed by parasitological
morphological research.

Treatment. Treatment of heartworm disease in humans
surgical and consists in removing the helminth.

Prevention

1. Personal measures
   prevention – protection against mosquito bites .
2. Combat
   mosquitoes in residential buildings, underground houses and other places.
3. Identification and
   treatment of invasive dogs, cats.

Mosquito bite: how to anoint and how to get rid of itching

What is the right way to take care of your skin if you get bitten by a mosquito and what are the health risks to be aware of? Says a dermatologist.

Margarita Gekht, Leading Dermatologist, Butterfly Children Charitable Foundation, Lecturer at the Skill for Skin Online Academy of Skin Problems

Advertising on RBC www.adv.rbc.ru

• How to detect a mosquito bite
• Why does it itch
• What to do after being bitten
• How to relieve itching
• Possible complications
• Repellents
• Medical treatment

What does a mosquito bite look like?

Female mosquitoes have a long proboscis with which they pierce the skin, inject saliva through it and suck in blood. The human body reacts to saliva with blistering and itching.

Some people react to the sting lightly, others more severely, they may experience a lot of swelling and painful redness at the site of the sting.

General symptoms of a mosquito bite:

• blister that appears on the skin a few minutes after the bite;
• edema;
• redness of the skin;
• itching.

If the bite is in an area close to the capillary network, dark spots that look like bruises may appear in its place.

Sometimes under certain circumstances, more often due to the peculiarities of the immune system, in addition to the general symptoms, more severe reactions can develop, which lead to the following symptoms. They may be isolated or part of the structure of Skeeter’s syndrome:

• large area of ​​swelling and redness;
• subfebrile or febrile fever;
• swollen lymph nodes.

Skeeter syndrome refers to a severe allergic reaction to mosquito bites. It is based on an allergic reaction to proteins contained in mosquito saliva. Most people have little reaction to mosquito bites, but people with skeeter syndrome are very sensitive to them and may develop a fever. In Skeeter’s syndrome, the blisters at the site of the bites tend to swell to a very large diameter, leading to swelling of the skin along with the fever. Usually the reaction builds up within a few hours.

Why itching develops after a mosquito bite

The causes of itching in mosquito bites are not well understood, but scientists have hypothesized three mechanisms. They are based on the assumption that the itch that occurs after a bite is associated with the components of the saliva of the insect.

According to the first hypothesis, mosquito saliva components cause an allergic reaction when they enter the skin. This is because one of the main components of mosquito saliva is the biologically active substance histamine, which is responsible for allergic reactions, including swelling, itching and redness. As a result, the classic picture of itching develops.

The second hypothesis is based on an IgE-dependent hypersensitivity reaction to salivary gland components. This means that certain people have special receptors on their own antibodies that are turned on during the introduction of the allergen (mosquito saliva). These proteins are called IgE. They are the first to bind to mosquito saliva proteins, transmit an impulse to mast cells of the skin, which in turn release histamine, resulting in itching.

Proponents of the third hypothesis believe that salivary gland components modulate the inflammatory response independently of IgE proteins.

© Shutterstock

How to get rid of mosquito bites

The first step is to apply mosquito repellent to any potentially exposed skin area. This measure ensures that there are no more bites. The alternative is to install a physical barrier for the mosquitoes, such as a mosquito net, or return indoors.

After applying protection, the bite area can be treated with ice or cream/gel with an antihistamine component. Itching will likely continue, but every effort should be made to avoid scratching the bite as this will cause further irritation.

Finally, look for any potential symptoms of illness such as fever, joint pain, or headache. This is to make sure you don’t get an infection.

Folk remedies for mosquito bites

1. Soda. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to make a paste. Apply it on a mosquito bite, wait ten minutes and wash off.
2. Oatmeal. Grind oatmeal to a floury consistency. When mixed with water, a colloidal suspension will be obtained – it is this part of the oatmeal that must be added to the bath (it should also be part of creams). Fine particles of colloidal oatmeal settle on the skin, retaining moisture and relieving itching.
3. Basil. This aromatic herb has a dual function. First, it repels mosquitoes. Therefore, it can be planted on the windowsill. Secondly, according to some studies, basil soothes the itching from a bite. Crush a few leaves and rub gently into the skin.
4. Aloe Vera. The sticky, clear gel found inside the aloe vera plant is used to treat many ailments. It has also been proven to be an effective remedy for itching.
5. Chamomile. This herb is used to relieve anxiety and insomnia. It is believed that applying a decoction of chamomile to the skin can soothe rashes and irritations. However, there is no exact data on the effectiveness of chamomile. Also, if you are allergic to ragweed, you may also have a reaction to chamomile. Be careful – in the composition of creams, chamomile is called “azulene”.
6. Menthol. Menthol products cool the skin, which may temporarily relieve itching.

© Shutterstock

Complications of mosquito bites

1. Impetigo. Local bacterial infection. May be caused by scratches at the site of the bite. More common with itchy bites.
2. Cellulite . In this case, the bacterial infection spreads to the skin. It looks edematous, becomes hot and painful to the touch and looks like an orange peel.
3. Lymphangitis. This bacterial infection spreads through the lymphatic channels. Visually looks like a red line going up the arm or leg. This case is more serious because the infection can enter the bloodstream and cause blood poisoning (sepsis).

When to See a Doctor

If mosquito bites are accompanied by more than just redness and itching, but fever, headache, body aches and other signs of infection, see a doctor.

Mosquito bite prevention

• Treat clothing and equipment with permethrin repellent.
• Choose long-sleeved shirts and trousers when choosing clothes. Mosquitoes cannot bite the skin if it is covered with a dense cloth.
• Choose closed shoes.

Another way to stop mosquitoes from biting

Mosquitoes need water to lay their eggs. Once a week, empty and wipe, turn over, cover, or discard items that contain water, such as paddling pools, bird baths, flower pots, or trash cans.

Mosquitoes are also attracted to body heat and body odors caused by sweat and lactic acid.

How the active ingredients of repellents work

DEET

N, N-diethyl meta-toluamide (DEET) is one of the most commonly used mosquito repellent chemicals. Research shows that it is one of the most effective. DEET affects insect receptors that detect carbon dioxide and body odor, causing mosquitoes to stop recognizing humans. It comes in a variety of forms, including liquids, sprays, lotions, and wristbands.

Picaridin

Picaridin is a new type of insect repellent. It works in a similar way to DEET, preventing mosquitoes from recognizing their prey, but contains fewer potentially toxic substances, making it considered a safe protection option for babies under six months of age.

Eucalyptus and Lemon Oils

Eucalyptus or Lemon Oils are a good option for those who prefer a natural, chemical-free repellant.