What causes itchy bumps that look like mosquito bites. How can you identify different types of skin reactions. What are effective treatments for various skin conditions causing itchy bumps. When should you seek medical attention for unexplained skin bumps.

Common Causes of Mosquito Bite-Like Bumps

Itchy bumps resembling mosquito bites can be caused by various skin conditions, allergic reactions, and environmental factors. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for proper treatment and relief. Let’s explore some of the most common culprits behind these mysterious skin reactions.

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives, medically known as urticaria, are a common skin condition affecting approximately 20% of people at some point in their lives. These raised, itchy welts can appear suddenly and disappear just as quickly, often resembling mosquito bites.

• Causes: Allergic reactions to foods, medications, insect stings, or environmental triggers
• Appearance: Red, purple, or skin-colored bumps that turn white when pressed
• Duration: Acute urticaria lasts less than 6 weeks

Are hives always caused by allergies? While allergies are a common trigger, hives can also result from stress, temperature changes, or underlying medical conditions. If you experience frequent or unexplained hives, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Bed Bug Bites: Identifying and Treating the Culprits

Bed bug bites can easily be mistaken for mosquito bites, making identification challenging. These tiny nocturnal pests leave behind telltale signs that can help you determine if they’re the source of your itchy bumps.

• Appearance: Small, red, itchy bumps, often in a straight line or cluster
• Location: Commonly found on exposed skin during sleep (arms, legs, neck)
• Additional signs: Blood spots on sheets, musty odor, visible bugs or shells

Can bed bug bites be dangerous? While bed bug bites are generally harmless, they can cause discomfort and, in rare cases, allergic reactions. If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it’s essential to take immediate action to eliminate the pests and prevent further bites.

Contact Dermatitis: When Your Skin Reacts to Allergens

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant or allergen. This condition can cause itchy, inflamed bumps that may resemble mosquito bites.

• Common triggers: Metals (nickel), latex, cosmetics, plants (poison ivy), cleaning products
• Symptoms: Itchy or painful rash, redness, swelling, blisters
• Onset: Typically 1-2 days after exposure
• Duration: 2-3 weeks for symptoms to disappear

Is contact dermatitis contagious? No, contact dermatitis is not contagious. However, the allergen causing the reaction can potentially affect others who come into contact with it. Identifying and avoiding triggers is crucial for managing this condition.

Scabies: Tiny Mites Causing Big Problems

Scabies is a skin infestation caused by the human itch mite. These microscopic parasites burrow into the skin, causing intense itching and a rash that can resemble mosquito bites.

• Appearance: Small, itchy bumps, often in a line or track
• Common locations: Hands, wrists, elbows, armpits, waist, genitals
• Transmission: Close skin-to-skin contact or sharing personal items

How quickly do scabies symptoms appear? Symptoms typically develop 2-6 weeks after initial infestation. However, individuals who have previously had scabies may show symptoms within 1-4 days of re-exposure.

Effective Treatments for Itchy Skin Bumps

While the specific treatment for itchy bumps depends on the underlying cause, some general self-care practices can provide relief for various skin conditions:

1. Avoid scratching to prevent further irritation and potential infection
2. Apply cold compresses to soothe itching and reduce inflammation
3. Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers
4. Take lukewarm baths with colloidal oatmeal or baking soda
5. Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing
6. Keep the affected area clean and dry

Are there any natural remedies for itchy skin bumps? Some people find relief with natural remedies such as aloe vera, chamomile tea compresses, or coconut oil. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments, especially for persistent or severe symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Unexplained Skin Bumps

While many cases of itchy bumps can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention:

• Symptoms persist for more than a few weeks
• The rash spreads rapidly or covers a large area of the body
• You experience signs of infection (fever, pus, increased pain)
• The itching significantly interferes with daily activities or sleep
• You have a known severe allergy and suspect exposure to a trigger

Can itchy bumps be a sign of a more serious condition? In some cases, persistent or unusual skin symptoms can indicate underlying health issues. If you’re concerned about your symptoms or they don’t improve with home care, consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for a proper evaluation.

Preventing Itchy Skin Reactions: Tips and Strategies

While it’s not always possible to prevent itchy skin bumps, several strategies can help reduce your risk of developing these irritating symptoms:

1. Identify and avoid known allergens or triggers
2. Use protective clothing and insect repellent when outdoors
3. Maintain good hygiene practices, especially when traveling
4. Keep your living space clean and free of pests
5. Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise
6. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet

Do certain foods contribute to itchy skin? Some people may experience itchy skin reactions after consuming certain foods, such as shellfish, nuts, or dairy products. If you suspect a food allergy or intolerance, consider keeping a food diary and consult an allergist for proper testing and diagnosis.

Understanding Skin Allergies and Sensitivities

Skin allergies and sensitivities can manifest in various ways, often resulting in itchy bumps that resemble mosquito bites. Common types of skin allergies include:

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Drug-induced skin reactions
• Photoallergic reactions

How are skin allergies diagnosed? Dermatologists and allergists use various methods to diagnose skin allergies, including:

1. Physical examination
2. Patch testing
3. Blood tests
4. Skin prick tests
5. Elimination diets (for suspected food allergies)

Can skin allergies develop later in life? Yes, it’s possible to develop skin allergies at any age. Factors such as changes in environment, hormones, or overall health can contribute to the onset of new allergies or sensitivities.

The Role of Environmental Factors in Skin Reactions

Environmental factors play a significant role in the development of itchy skin bumps and allergic reactions. Some common environmental triggers include:

• Pollen
• Mold spores
• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Air pollution
• Extreme temperatures
• Low humidity

How can you minimize exposure to environmental triggers? Consider these strategies:

1. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters
2. Keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50%
3. Regularly clean and vacuum your living space
4. Use allergen-proof bedding covers
5. Monitor local air quality reports and limit outdoor activities on high-pollution days

Does climate change affect skin allergies? Emerging research suggests that climate change may be contributing to an increase in allergies and skin reactions. Factors such as longer pollen seasons, increased air pollution, and changes in plant distribution can potentially exacerbate existing allergies or trigger new ones.

Innovative Treatments for Chronic Skin Conditions

For individuals suffering from chronic or severe skin conditions that cause persistent itchy bumps, several innovative treatments are available or under investigation:

• Biologics: Targeted therapies that modulate the immune system
• Phototherapy: Controlled exposure to specific wavelengths of light
• Immunotherapy: Gradual exposure to allergens to build tolerance
• Topical immunomodulators: Creams that regulate local immune responses
• Microbiome-based therapies: Treatments targeting skin bacteria balance

Are these treatments suitable for everyone? The appropriateness of these advanced treatments depends on the specific condition, severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. A dermatologist or allergist can help determine the most suitable treatment approach for each case.

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Skin Conditions

Living with persistent itchy skin bumps or chronic skin conditions can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health and quality of life. Some common psychological effects include:

• Anxiety and depression
• Social isolation
• Low self-esteem
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty concentrating

How can individuals cope with the psychological impact of skin conditions? Consider these strategies:

1. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
2. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
3. Consult a mental health professional if needed
4. Educate yourself about your condition to feel more in control
5. Focus on self-care and overall well-being

Can addressing psychological factors improve skin symptoms? In some cases, managing stress and addressing mental health concerns can lead to improvements in skin symptoms. The mind-body connection is complex, and a holistic approach to treatment often yields the best results.

Future Directions in Skin Allergy Research

The field of dermatology and allergology is continually evolving, with researchers exploring new avenues for understanding and treating skin conditions that cause itchy bumps. Some promising areas of research include:

• Genetic factors influencing skin allergies
• The role of the skin microbiome in allergic reactions
• Novel drug delivery systems for topical treatments
• Personalized medicine approaches based on individual genetic profiles
• Artificial intelligence for early diagnosis and treatment planning

How might these advancements impact future treatments? As our understanding of skin allergies and reactions deepens, we can expect more targeted and effective treatments with fewer side effects. Personalized approaches may allow for more precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plans, improving outcomes for individuals suffering from chronic skin conditions.

In conclusion, itchy bumps that resemble mosquito bites can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from common allergic reactions to more complex skin conditions. By understanding the potential causes, recognizing symptoms, and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can find relief and improve their quality of life. As research in this field continues to advance, we can look forward to even more effective strategies for managing and preventing these bothersome skin reactions in the future.

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.

Hives (Urticaria): Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Nationwide Children’s Hospital

Overview

Signs & Symptoms

Causes

Treatment

What to Expect

When to Seek Help

What Are Hives?

Hives are red, raised bumps on the skin that can be itchy. Hives are also called urticaria. About 1 in 5 people will get hives at some point in their lives.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Hives?

Hives can be found anywhere on the body. They can be small, like mosquito bites, or several inches wide. Even if they look different, hives often have common symptoms.

• People may have one hive or groups of hives that cover large areas of the body.
• Hives can move around on the body. They may start in one place, then move to another place on the body. 
• Hives may go away quickly or come and go for many weeks or months. 
• Skin swelling is common with hives. It may happen on the lips, ears, eyelids, fingers, or toes. This is common and not dangerous. 
• Less commonly, hives can occur as part of a more severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can cause the airway to swell, making it hard to breathe. This is a life-threatening reaction that needs to be treated right away.  

What Causes Hives?

Hives happen when the body releases a chemical called histamine. It can be released because of allergies or other things, like stress, infections, or some illnesses. Whatever is causing histamine to be released is called a trigger.

• Hives not related to allergies are more common. Their triggers are:
  • Viruses or infections, like a cold, strep throat, or a urinary tract infection (UTI).
  • Emotional stress, like anxiety, anger, fear, or sadness.
  • Exercises that make the body warm.
  • Vibrations from using a lawn mower, horseback riding, or mountain biking.
  • Temperatures that are too hot or too cold.
  • Sunlight or tanning beds (sunlamps).
  • Pressure on the skin, like being rubbed too hard or scratched, or by wearing clothes that are too tight.

Hives that are related to allergies are less common. Their triggers are:

• Foods or medicines (anaphylaxis may occur) – Symptoms include nausea, throwing up (vomiting), mouth/throat swelling, and trouble breathing. This can be very dangerous.
  • Some common foods that cause allergies include eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, milk, and shellfish. 
  • Some medicines that cause allergies include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), and naproxen sodium (Aleve®).
• Contact with the skin that can lead to irritation. These are usually not dangerous.
  • Plants, grasses, weeds
  • Acidic foods or sauces
  • Scents or fragrances (soaps, detergents, lotions)
  • Animal dander
  • Latex or other materials

When to Get Emergency Help

Call 911 or take your child to the closest emergency room if they have hives and any symptoms of anaphylaxis:

• Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
• Swelling of the mouth or tongue
• Nausea or vomiting

If they have an epinephrine auto-injector, like EpiPen®, Auvi-Q®, or Adrenaclick®, use it right away.

How Are Hives Treated?

Treatment depends on how bad the itching is. Even with treatment, hives can last days to weeks. The goals of treatment are to:

• Control the itching
• Avoid things that may trigger hives

For mild hives:

• Give an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine each day. Some examples are:
  • Loratadine (Claritin®)
  • Fexofenadine (Allegra®)
  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec®)
  • Levocetirizine (Xyzal®)
• Do not use Benadryl® creams. These may cause irritating rashes.
• Cool the skin using an ice pack or a cold bath or shower.
• Distract your child by playing games, singing songs, or reading books.
• Avoid known triggers, like animal dander or fragrance.

For severe hives:

• Give a higher dose of antihistamines or steroids, like prednisone. Oral steroids should not be used a lot. They may make hives worse when you stop taking the medicine.
• See a doctor or health care provider. They may prescribe a medicine, like Xolair® shots (injections), if you have long-term (chronic) hives.

Living With Hives

Living with hives isn’t easy, especially if you don’t know what’s causing them. It may help if you write down events that happened right before the hives appeared. This can help you and your child make a plan to keep the hives from coming back.

Depending on what’s causing your child’s hives, you can keep their hives from getting worse by having them:

• Avoid scratching or rubbing their skin.
• Wash their hands after touching pets or animals.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes. • Wear warm clothes. 
• Wear sunblock and long sleeves and pants in the sun.
• Avoid contact with cold water if they’re sensitive to cold.
• Use mild, unscented soap on their skin and for washing clothes.

When to Call the Doctor

Call the doctor or health care provider if your child’s hives get worse or prescribed medicine isn’t helping.

Hives (Urticaria) (PDF), Spanish (PDF), Somali (PDF)

HH-I-82 11/89, Revised 2023, Nationwide Children’s Hospital

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

How to take care of the skin in case of a mosquito bite and what health risks are important to know? 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 identify 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, and may experience large 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 can be isolated or included in 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 put forward hypotheses about 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 fragrant 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.

© Blanchi Costela / Getty Images

Medical treatment of mosquito bites

Topically:

• Apply specialized gels and emulsions containing antihistamines two to three times a day.
• For severe redness and itching, a cream or emulsion containing 1% hydrocortisone can be used once or twice a day for two to three days. If symptoms persist or worsen, a doctor should be consulted.
• Calamine and zinc oxide products can be used for children under two years of age. From the age of two, a lotion containing menthol, zinc oxide and calamine is suitable.

Oral:

• First generation antihistamines may be used in acute inflammatory reactions.
• For subacute stage and mild itching, 2nd generation antihistamines.

Both generations are available in both drop and tablet form.

Allergy pills: a review of modern drugs

DIROFILARIOSIS – A PARASITIC DISEASE

Published: 06/17/2015

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.