Emma Miller
During the summer period, not only flora, but also fauna are active, and as a result, many people find themselves bitten by insects. Allergies do not occur to everyone – depending on the state of the immune system, the body’s reaction can be different.
What an allergy to a gnat or mosquito bite looks like
First of all, it is worth understanding that only females bite humans – males do not have this function. The moment the mosquito or gnat, joining the body, is filled with blood, the insect injects saliva into the wound. It contains a large number of proteins that prevent the blood from clotting. Due to the fact that this substance is perceived by the human body as foreign, there is an allergic reaction.
The most susceptible persons to allergic reactions are:
- children under the age of 10;
- adults who have fallen victim to previously unknown insects;
- People with immune system diseases;
- patients with rare blood diseases.
Not everyone reacts acutely to the bite – the degree of severity depends on the state of the immune system. For example, infants may not react at all to a bite – their body is not yet familiar with such a situation and does not know what to do about it.
You cannot know in advance whether you are allergic to insect bites. This is found out only at the time of the meeting with a mosquito or a gnat – by the body’s reaction.
How to know if you are allergic to mosquito bites
The most striking manifestations of allergies:
- is swelling of the bite site;
- itching;
- redness;
- red blisters;
- swelling and fever at the site of the bite.
Sometimes there are severe cases of fever, vomiting, severe pain, fever, chills, and even anaphylaxis. In addition to the fact that an insect bite can develop respiratory failure, mosquitoes, and midges are also carriers of dangerous diseases.
It is important to see a doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
- difficulty breathing;
- weakness to the point of losing consciousness;
- disorientation;
- pale skin.
If suddenly pus, a red spot, or a blister appears in the place of the bite – this is a reason to call the paramedics. It is also worth visiting the hospital if mosquitoes or midges bite you on the face, which caused eyelids, nose, eyes or lips began to swell.
What to rub on mosquito bites – folk remedies and doctor’s advice
Most likely, at an appointment with a specialist, you will be prescribed pills or shots against allergies. If you were brought by ambulance in a critical condition, the medical staff will carry out measures to provide emergency rehabilitation.
Folk methods to combat mosquito and gnat bites are as effective as pharma products – our mothers and grandmothers used them for decades. You need:
- wash the bite site immediately with warm water and soap;
- Put ice or something cold on the wound to reduce the swelling;
- Apply zinc to the bite;
- if it does not get better, use a steroid-based ointment and take an antihistamine.
Remember that any pills should be taken under the supervision of a doctor – self-treatment can lead to unpredictable results.
How to avoid attacks by mosquitoes and midges
Of course, in summer there is nowhere to escape from insects, but you can reduce the risk of attacking annoying insects:
- don’t use perfume – sweet smells attract mosquitoes and gnats;
- do not go to forests and parks in the evening or at night;
- Do not wear brightly colored clothing;
- avoid bodies of water and places with a high level of humidity.
If you are afraid that the bite of a mosquito or gnat may provoke severe allergies, use repellent before every trip outdoors – this will help make you invisible to insects for a few hours.
