Mosquito bites cause itchy, reddened bumps on the skin that can normally be treated without medical intervention, according to the American Medical Association. At-home treatment focuses on relieving the itching, which may last for three to seven days, because scratching can cause breaks in the skin that could become infected, reports the National Institutes of Health. Although hypersensitivity reactions are rare, the AMA warns that wheezing, hives and swelling of the throat after a mosquito bite are signs of an allergic reaction that require immediate medical attention.
Lifestyle Strategies
To reduce itching, avoid exposure to humidity, heat and other irritants such as wool clothing, reports the National Institutes of Health. Using cold compresses on the affected area or bathing in lukewarm water mixed with oatmeal or cornstarch can also be helpful. The fingernails should be cut short so that scratching does not break the skin, and you should distract yourself with activity during the day.
External Treatments
Applying creams and lotions to the skin several times a day can help to relieve itching from a mosquito bite. Over-the-counter preparations labeled as external analgesics or topical analgesics contain hydrocortisone, pramoxine or lidocaine, notes the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Products marketed as skin protectants contain colloidal oatmeal and sodium bicarbonate for itch relief. Aloe vera gel or calamine lotion may also be helpful, according to the AMA. External remedies should never be taken by mouth and instructions on the label should be followed exactly.
Over-the-Counter Oral Medications
For extensive itching, the AMA suggests taking an over-the-counter antihistamine such as diphenhydramine by mouth. Other oral medications for itching that do not require a prescription include chlorpheniramine maleate, loratadine or cetirizine, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some oral medications for itching cause drowsiness, so you should avoid driving or using heavy machinery while taking the drug.
Prescription Medications
Severe itching or extensive itching over large areas of the body should be evaluated by a health care provider. Prescription medications such as antihistamines or corticosteroids, by mouth or in external form, may be required. If the bites become infected, antibiotics may be needed. Mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, malaria or dengue fever, so you should contact your health care provider if symptoms of a systemic illness appear after a bite.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Itching
- “Handbook of First Aid and Emergency Care;” American Medical Association; 2009
- Mayo Clinic: Mosquito Bites
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Beware of Bug Bites and Stings
