How to Treat Mosquito Bites
You’ve likely dealt with the slightly uncomfortable symptoms from a mosquito bite before. When left to heal properly, the symptoms from a bite can clear up in just a few days. Taking the following steps will help heal a mosquito bite quickly and effectively:
- Carefully wash the site of the bite with soap and warm water.
- To reduce swelling or itching, apply an ice pack for ten minute intervals as needed.
- Use anti-inflammatories, antihistamines, and over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to help with itchiness.
- To the best of your ability, avoid scratching at the site of the bites.
Tips to Stop Mosquito Bites From Itching
Once you are bitten by a mosquito, you may begin to exhibit symptoms in just a few hours. The first symptom is, more often than not, itchiness! The bite will look like a raised white welt but will reduce to a red bump in a day or so. To alleviate the itching sensation, use ice packs and OTC creams for immediate relief. You may also choose to use anti-inflammatories or antihistamines to help with the symptoms. Most importantly, resist the temptation to scratch away at the bites. Scratching runs the risk of opening the wound, which can lengthen the healing process or even leave the bite vulnerable to infection.
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How Do I Heal Mosquito Bites At Home?
It’s likely you have things right in your cupboard that can heal mosquito bites in the comfort of your home. Always do a skin patch test before proceeding with any of these homemade or natural remedies. A few of the most common homemade remedies include:
- Honey. Used for many at-home treatments, honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A small drop on a mosquito bite can reduce inflammation and reduce the desire to scratch.
- Baking soda and water. Create a paste using 1 tablespoon baking soda and water. Apply it to the mosquito bite, let sit for ten minutes, and wash away.
- Oatmeal. An oatmeal paste created using equal amounts of oatmeal and water can be applied to the skin with a washcloth. You can also try an oatmeal bath by sprinkling a cup of ground oats into a warm-water bath.
- Aloe vera. Not just used for sunburns, aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to soothe the symptoms associated with mosquito bites.
When Should I See A Doctor For Mosquito Bites?
If you begin to get more severe symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito, it’s best to see your doctor. Severe symptoms to keep an eye out for include fevers, rashes, nausea, and allergic reactions. Thankfully, most mosquito bites can heal right at home in just a few days.
How To Treat Mosquito Bites in Vermont
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