What causes itchy bumps that look like mosquito bites. How to identify different types of skin rashes. What are the best treatments for various skin conditions causing itchy bumps. When should you see a doctor for unexplained skin rashes.

Understanding Hives: A Common Cause of Itchy Skin Bumps

Hives, medically known as urticaria, are a frequent source of itchy bumps on the skin that can be mistaken for mosquito bites. Affecting approximately 20% of people at some point in their lives, hives are characterized by raised, itchy areas on the skin that can appear and disappear rapidly.

What triggers hives? Common culprits include:

• Certain foods (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts, seafood)
• Latex
• Pollen
• Insect bites or stings
• Various plants
• Some medications (e.g., sulfa drugs, aspirin)

How can you identify hives? These itchy bumps typically:

• Appear as red, purple, or skin-colored welts
• Turn white or disappear when pressed
• Can occur anywhere on the body
• Appear and disappear quickly

Treating Hives Effectively

The treatment for hives varies depending on severity and cause, but generally includes:

1. Avoiding known triggers
2. Using anti-itching lotions
3. Taking over-the-counter antihistamines
4. In severe cases, using prescription antihistamines or corticosteroids

For individuals with severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (like an EpiPen) may be necessary to prevent life-threatening reactions.

Bed Bug Bites: Sneaky Culprits of Itchy Skin

Bed bug bites can often be confused with mosquito bites, but they have some distinct characteristics. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these bites may take up to two weeks to appear after exposure.

How can you identify bed bug bites? Look for:

• Itchy bumps in a straight line or clustered pattern
• Other signs of bed bug presence (e.g., bugs on mattress, blood spots on sheets)
• A characteristic musty odor associated with bed bug infestations

Managing Bed Bug Bites

Unless a severe allergic reaction occurs, treatment for bed bug bites typically involves simple self-care practices:

• Avoiding scratching the affected areas
• Applying over-the-counter antiseptic ointments
• Taking antihistamines to reduce itching

Contact Dermatitis: When Your Skin Rebels Against Allergens

Contact dermatitis is an allergic reaction that develops when skin comes into contact with an allergen. This condition can cause itchy bumps that may be mistaken for insect bites.

What are common triggers for contact dermatitis?

• Latex
• Certain metals (e.g., nickel)
• Household products
• Cosmetics and personal care items

How does contact dermatitis differ from other skin conditions? It often:

• Takes 1-2 days to develop after exposure
• Can persist for 2-3 weeks
• May be painful as well as itchy
• Can present with inflammation and blisters

Effective Management of Contact Dermatitis

Treating contact dermatitis involves a combination of self-care and medical interventions:

1. Applying cold compresses
2. Using calamine lotion
3. Taking soothing baths
4. In severe cases, using prescription antihistamines or cortisone

Identifying and avoiding triggers is crucial for managing contact dermatitis. With over 3,700 substances known to cause contact allergies, working with healthcare professionals can help pinpoint specific triggers.

Scabies: Tiny Mites, Big Discomfort

Scabies, caused by the human itch mite, can produce itchy bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites. These microscopic mites burrow into the top layer of skin, laying eggs and causing intense itching.

How can you identify scabies?

• Look for raised, crooked, skin-colored lines on the skin surface
• Itchy bumps are the most common symptom
• Itching often intensifies at night
• Common affected areas include hands, wrists, elbows, and genitals

Treating Scabies Effectively

Scabies requires medical intervention for successful treatment. The typical approach includes:

1. Prescription scabicide lotions or creams
2. Treating all household members and close contacts simultaneously
3. Washing all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water
4. Vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture

It’s important to note that itching may persist for several weeks after treatment due to the body’s allergic response to the mites and their eggs.

Heat Rash: When Your Skin Gets Too Hot to Handle

Heat rash, also known as miliaria or prickly heat, occurs when sweat ducts become blocked, trapping perspiration under the skin. This condition can cause itchy bumps that may be mistaken for insect bites.

What causes heat rash?

• Hot, humid weather
• Intense physical activity
• Occlusive clothing or bedding
• Certain medical conditions or medications

Identifying and Managing Heat Rash

Heat rash typically presents as:

• Small, red bumps or clear blisters
• Itchy or prickly sensation
• Rash in areas where sweat collects (e.g., neck, chest, elbow creases)

To manage heat rash effectively:

1. Move to a cooler, less humid environment
2. Wear loose, breathable clothing
3. Apply cool compresses to affected areas
4. Use calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream for itching
5. Avoid using heavy creams or ointments that may block pores

Folliculitis: When Hair Follicles Become Inflamed

Folliculitis is an inflammation of hair follicles that can cause itchy, red bumps resembling mosquito bites. This condition can occur anywhere on the body where hair grows.

What triggers folliculitis?

• Bacterial or fungal infections
• Friction from tight clothing
• Excessive sweating
• Certain medications
• Shaving or waxing

Treating and Preventing Folliculitis

To manage folliculitis effectively:

1. Apply warm compresses to soothe the affected area
2. Use antibacterial soap or over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide
3. Avoid tight clothing and friction in affected areas
4. Maintain good hygiene practices
5. For persistent cases, consult a healthcare provider for prescription treatments

Preventing folliculitis involves maintaining good hygiene, avoiding tight clothing, and using clean razors when shaving.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Itchy Skin Bumps

While many cases of itchy skin bumps can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. When should you consult a healthcare provider?

• The rash persists for more than a few days despite home treatment
• You experience severe itching that interferes with daily activities or sleep
• The rash is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, joint pain, or difficulty breathing
• You suspect the rash may be due to a new medication
• The rash spreads rapidly or covers a large area of your body
• You have signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, or pus

A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the cause of your itchy skin bumps and recommend appropriate treatment. They may perform tests, such as skin scrapings or biopsies, to determine the underlying cause and rule out more serious conditions.

Diagnostic Approaches for Itchy Skin Bumps

Healthcare providers use various methods to diagnose the cause of itchy skin bumps:

1. Visual examination of the affected area
2. Review of medical history and potential exposures
3. Skin scrapings or swabs for microscopic examination
4. Patch testing for suspected contact allergies
5. Blood tests to check for systemic conditions or allergies
6. Skin biopsy in cases of persistent or unusual rashes

These diagnostic tools help healthcare providers determine the most effective treatment plan for your specific condition.

Natural Remedies for Soothing Itchy Skin Bumps

While medical treatments are often necessary for persistent or severe cases of itchy skin bumps, several natural remedies can provide relief for mild symptoms. What are some effective home remedies for itchy skin?

• Oatmeal baths: Colloidal oatmeal can help soothe itchy, irritated skin
• Aloe vera: Known for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties
• Cold compresses: Can reduce inflammation and provide immediate itch relief
• Baking soda paste: May help neutralize skin pH and reduce itching
• Tea tree oil: Has antimicrobial properties that can help with certain skin conditions
• Chamomile tea: Can be applied topically to soothe irritated skin

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Itchy Skin Bumps

In addition to treating existing itchy skin bumps, making certain lifestyle changes can help prevent future occurrences:

1. Maintain good skin hygiene, but avoid over-bathing or using harsh soaps
2. Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic skincare products
3. Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing
4. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
5. Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise
6. Use a humidifier in dry environments to keep skin moisturized
7. Avoid known allergens and irritants

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can help reduce the likelihood of developing itchy skin bumps and maintain overall skin health.

The Role of Diet in Managing Itchy Skin Conditions

While not all itchy skin conditions are directly related to diet, nutrition can play a significant role in skin health and the body’s ability to manage inflammation. How can dietary changes impact itchy skin bumps?

• Identify and eliminate food allergens: Common culprits include dairy, gluten, and certain nuts
• Increase intake of anti-inflammatory foods: Such as fatty fish, leafy greens, and berries
• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining skin health
• Consider probiotics: They may help support skin health and reduce inflammation
• Limit processed foods and added sugars: These can contribute to inflammation in the body

Supplements That May Support Skin Health

Certain supplements may help support overall skin health and potentially reduce the occurrence of itchy skin bumps:

1. Omega-3 fatty acids: Can help reduce inflammation
2. Vitamin D: Important for skin cell growth and repair
3. Zinc: Supports wound healing and may help with certain skin conditions
4. Vitamin E: An antioxidant that can support skin health
5. Collagen: May help improve skin elasticity and hydration

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as some supplements can interact with medications or have side effects.

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Itchy Skin Conditions

Chronic itchy skin conditions can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and mental health. What are some psychological effects of dealing with persistent itchy skin bumps?

• Stress and anxiety: The constant urge to scratch can be mentally exhausting
• Sleep disturbances: Itching often worsens at night, leading to poor sleep quality
• Social isolation: Visible skin conditions may cause embarrassment or self-consciousness
• Depression: Chronic skin conditions can contribute to feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
• Reduced self-esteem: Skin appearance can significantly impact body image

Coping Strategies for Living with Chronic Skin Conditions

If you’re dealing with a chronic itchy skin condition, consider these coping strategies:

1. Seek support: Join support groups or connect with others who have similar conditions
2. Practice stress-reduction techniques: Such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises
3. Engage in activities you enjoy: To help distract from the discomfort and boost mood
4. Communicate openly with friends and family about your condition
5. Consider counseling or therapy if you’re struggling emotionally
6. Work closely with your healthcare provider to manage your condition effectively

Remember, managing a chronic skin condition is about more than just treating physical symptoms. Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is equally important for overall health and quality of life.

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.

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.

What to do if bitten by a mosquito and everything itches and itches

Health

June 27

You don’t have to develop willpower.

Why mosquito bites itch so much

Mosquitoes pierce the skin with a special mouth apparatus and suck blood through it. At this time, their saliva, which contains proteins foreign to humans, enters the skin. The immune system reacts to this and inflammation sets in, which manifests itself as an itchy pink bump.

Most people are slightly sensitive to mosquito saliva, so the reaction does not go beyond the bite. But for some, the immune system is more aggressive, so there is a lot of swelling, redness and soreness around. In this case, the temperature may rise, and the general condition may worsen.

How to relieve itching from mosquito bites

Although mosquito bites are very common, there is very little research on their treatment. The fact is that they heal so well: even if you do nothing, the discomfort from the bite will disappear in a couple of days. So scientists tend to focus on diseases that mosquitoes can carry.

This is why most recommendations are based on expert opinion and clinical experience.

Apply an ice cube

Ice slows down blood flow, which means it reduces the reaction to foreign protein – inflammation, pain, swelling and itching. Therefore, apply an ice pack wrapped in a light towel to the bite for at least 10 minutes. Another option is to rub the bump with an ice cube for 30 seconds.

Wipe the bite with an alcohol wipe

Alcohol causes proteins in mosquito saliva to break down, so the reaction should be less. Of course, this will only help immediately after the bite.

Apply calamine lotion

Calamine lotion reduces itching, so may also be useful against mosquito bites.

Apply OTC steroid

Corticosteroids reduce immune response. Therefore, inflammation, itching and pain at the bite sites become less. Apply a very thin layer of cream, such as a hydrocortisone-based cream, spot on the bite.

Apply Antihistamine Ointment

Histamine is a chemical released by immune system cells when it encounters an allergen. So apply antihistamine ointment on the bites to help reduce itching.

Take an over-the-counter antihistamine

For more severe reactions or more bites, you can take an over-the-counter antihistamine to reduce symptoms.

What folk methods can work

These methods have not been tested by scientists to reduce itching from bites. But some of this is used in other situations, and some of it has been tested by experience. So if they help you, use them.

Attach tea bag

The easiest way to apply to the bite is a tea bag that has been wrung out and cooled. You should not use a new one, so that it does not stain the skin.

In addition to ordinary tea, you can take chamomile, as it contains terpenoids and flavonoids, which have antioxidant and antihistamine properties.

Press the sachet against mosquito bites for 10 minutes and then wipe off any remaining tea with a clean towel. You can then put the bag in the refrigerator to make such compresses during the day.

Apply tea tree oil

Tea tree oil reduces inflammation and is said to help with mosquito bites. Remember that it is better not to abuse it, as it can lead to irritation, an allergic reaction and contact dermatitis.

Apply baking soda paste

Add just a little water to baking soda to make a paste. It must be applied pointwise to the bites so that they do not itch so much.

Wipe the bite with vinegar

This substance can also destroy proteins from mosquito saliva, so you can wipe a completely fresh puncture with it.

Apply Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Leaf Gel contains salicylic acid to help reduce itching and pain. So try spotting it on the bite.

Brush the bite with honey

Honey contains the catalase enzyme, which breaks down protein. Therefore, it can reduce inflammation slightly. In general, anoint the bites with honey, and cover the top with gauze so that nothing sticks to you.

Apply oatmeal

Gluten is said to soothe the skin. Therefore, you can grind the cereal in a blender, and then mix it with a little water to make a thick paste. It must be applied to the bite.

Apply pressure to the bite

Sounds strange, but pressure on the bite helps reduce itching. Someone generally makes two dents in the shape of a cross with a fingernail and thinks that this is the best way. Try different options, but try not to scratch the skin to the point of bleeding.

Grate the bite with an onion or banana

Not sure if it will help, but you can try. True, it is better not to leave onion juice on sensitive skin for a long time, because it can cause irritation.

Pat the bite

Instead of scratching, pat the bite. There is an opinion that in this way you will deceive the brain: it will think that you have scratched yourself.

Apply a hot spoon

Heat is thought to help break down proteins in saliva, but immunologist Catriona Nguyen-Robertson says it’s more likely that you’re shifting your focus away from itching again.

You should be careful with this method: if you overdo it, you may get burned.

When to see a doctor about mosquito bites

See a doctor if:

• your general condition worsens and flu-like symptoms develop;
• you are concerned about an excessive skin reaction;
• bites do not go away after a few days, but rather increase in size;
• you have damaged the bite, and an infection has developed there – it is red, sore, maybe there is a discharge.

Read also 🧐

• How to get rid of mosquitoes in the area
• 7 reasons why you are attractive to mosquitoes
• How to choose the right mosquito repellent for children

7 signs of skin cancer that no one pays attention to

Everyone knows that if a mole has changed size or color, you need to urgently run to an oncologist. But it happens that the body gives much less obvious signals that may indicate a malignant skin tumor.

16,000 Britons are diagnosed with skin cancer every year, and 2,500 of them eventually die, reports the Mirror. The good news is that 80 to 100 percent of cases found in stage 1 or 2 are easily treatable. How not to overlook the tumor, said dermatologist Ross Perry.

1. Unexplained scars

Basalioma. Photo © Wikimedia Commons

If out of nowhere you have a scar that grows in size, this may be a sign of a basalioma. It occurs on areas of the skin that are exposed to intense sun exposure. The scar may look like a waxy thickening. This is the most common form of skin cancer, but, fortunately, the least dangerous if detected early.

2. Eruptions on the eyelids

Basalioma on the eyelid. Photo © BOPSS

Eyelid malignancies may be brown, black, red, or flesh-colored. They can be hard to the touch, itchy and painful, or shiny and waxy. It is important to record all the changes that occur to them. To protect your eyelids from ultraviolet light, you need to wear sunglasses or a hat, and use sunscreen.

3. Black spots under nails

Subungual melanoma. Video screenshot: YouTube / The Doctors

Subungual melanoma can easily be confused with a bruise. Most often, it occurs under the thumbnail as a result of regular injury to this area. If left untreated, subungual melanoma can spread to other parts of the body.

4. Itching of the scalp

Squamous cell carcinoma. Photo © Brown University

If your head is constantly itching, take a close look at the skin under your hair. Scalp cancer is more common in men and there are three types. Firstly, it is a basalioma, but it is rare and not so dangerous. The second form is squamous cell carcinoma. It affects fair-skinned people who are often exposed to the sun, and appears as scaly red spots, open sores, rough, thickened, or warty areas of the skin, and raised, dimpled growths. But the most dangerous form is melanoma, and it looks like a normal mole.

5. Non-healing ulcers

Basalioma. Photo © Wikimedia Commons

These sores can look lumpy, dry and scaly. They can also itch and bleed. All these signs indicate the risk of developing basalioma.

6. Non-healing “insect bites”

Site of mosquito bite. Photo © Wikimedia Commons

Red bumps, which in the warm season can easily be mistaken for mosquito bites, can actually be something much more serious. If they have not gone away even after a few weeks, you should go to the doctor to rule out the risk of developing skin cancer.