Mosquitoes can ruin an otherwise enjoyable time outdoors in the spring and summer months.In some parts of the world, mosquitoes carry diseases that are life threatening.The worst thing about a mosquito bite is the inflammation left behind.Home remedies and over-the-counter medications can be used to treat these symptoms.
Step 1: To clean the bite, use soap and water.
As soon as possible, wash the bite with soap and water.It can help soothe itching.Rub the area dry with a clean towel.Cool water is better than hot water.Cool water can help with itching and swelling.If you rub the bite when you dry it off, you can make it worse.
Step 2: Try an over-the-counter medication.
Medicated creams and gels may be the easiest way to heal mosquito bites.Rub the medicine onto the bitten area and it will be absorbed by the skin.Swelling and inflammation can be reduced by using hydrocortisone creams.Benadryl is an antihistamine that can relieve itching.Before you apply any cream or gel, make sure the skin is clean.
Step 3: Put toothpaste on the bite.
A small amount of toothpaste on a mosquito bite can relieve itching and pain.If you put it on the bite immediately, it will work best.Mint works better in toothpastes than other flavors.The cooling effect of the menthol in the mint helps to soothe inflammation and reduce swelling.
Step 4: It's a good idea to sprinkle on the gel or lotion.
If you've ever had a sunburn, you know how soothing it is.It is possible to relieve itching and inflammation of mosquito bites with the same product.If you're using natural or organic aloe Vera gel, it's a good idea to put it in the fridge for a few minutes before applying it to your skin.
Step 5: Rub honey on the bite to clean it.
The antibacterial properties of honey help to clean the bitten skin.It's possible that honey can help to reduce inflammation and swelling around the bite.Commercial honey doesn't have added sugars or chemicals so it may work better for relief.If you are still outside, don't use honey.
Step 6: The paste should be made with 7 g of baking soda and 1 cup of water.
It doesn't do much to relieve inflammation or swelling, but it can stop itching.This isn't something you can do immediately to help the bite, but it can help once you've gone inside.Before applying a baking soda and water paste to the bitten skin, it is advisable to clean it with soapy water and pat it dry.
Step 7: Swelling and inflammation can be prevented with ice.
An ice pack or a damp cloth on the bitten area can calm the skin so it doesn't become red and swollen.Leave ice on your skin for no more than 15 minutes at a time.Placing ice directly on your skin can lead to burns.It is possible to reduce the itching sensation with an ice pack or cold compress.The effect lasts as long as your skin is cooled.The itching will return once you remove the ice pack or cold compress.Menthol does not lower the surface temperature of your skin.Menthol can help reduce inflammation.
Step 8: If you have a more severe reaction, take an oral antihistamine.
The swelling, inflammation, and itching of mosquito bites can be alleviated with oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and fexofenadine.The majority of these medicines are available over the counter.If you have a history of severe reactions to mosquito bites, take an oral antihistamine a few hours before you plan to be outdoors.24-hour relief is provided by most oral antihistamines.Benadryl must be taken once every 6 hours.If you've been directed by your doctor to use an over-the-counter oral antihistamine, follow the instructions on the package.
Step 9: Don't scratch your mosquito bites.
When you scratch them, they become infections.Children with dirtier hands and fingernails are more likely to get infections, especially if they're playing outside.It is important to remember that scratching a mosquito bite only provides temporary relief.It can help spread the mosquito's saliva, which causes the reaction.
Step 10: Use soap and water to clean blisters.
It is possible to clean the skin with mild soap and warm water.If you scratch your mosquito bites to the point that they're bleeding, wash the area immediately.When you're cleaning your skin, don't pop the blisters where the mosquito bit you.It can increase your skin's sensitivity and leave a raw area exposed tobacteria.
Step 11: Wrap broken skin with a bandage.
If you have been bitten by a mosquito, cover it with a bandage or small piece of cloth to keep it out of the air.The risk of infections can be reduced.If the bite is surrounded by redness or inflammation, you should use a bandage or gauze to cover the skin.Don't apply the material to the skin.
Step 12: Every 4 hours, apply the medication.
If you don't re apply the cream or lotion, it will lose its effect and you will start scratching again.Before applying the medication, wash the bitten area with soap and warm water.The cream should be rubbed into the skin around the bite.If a blisters has formed, avoid rubbing on the bite.You can break the skin.If you want to put the cream directly on the bite, you have to use a finger.
Step 13: There are warning signs of infection.
Skin that is broken or raw can become infections.The signs of an illness won't be obvious immediately.It is a good idea to look for a bite that is surrounded by swelling and inflammation.Infections can include a bite, chills, or a high temperature over 100 F.Make an appointment to see your doctor if you notice any of these warning signs.It will take a round of antibiotics to heal a bite.If you're waiting for the doctor to see the bite, you can treat it with a cream.Relief from itching and pain can be provided by antibiotic ointments.
Step 14: When mosquitoes are most active, stay inside at dawn and dusk.
The mosquitoes are most active during the hours around sunrise and sunset.Even if you're taking other precautions, you are more likely to get bitten during these times.If you are outside, make sure to stay in screened-in areas because mosquitoes will have a harder time getting to you.You can view the sunset from a screened-in porch.
Step 15: When you are outside, wear protective clothing.
A long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and a hat protect against mosquitoes.Lighter clothing will keep you cool even if it's hot outside.If you were wearing less clothing that exposed your skin, you would be cooler than if you wore white or light colored clothing.You won't sweat as much if you have loose-fitting clothing.
Step 16: For extended periods of time, use an insect repellent.
DEET can be used to repel mosquitoes and keep them away from you.It's possible to spray your skin and clothing.Carefully read the instructions on the label.It's a good idea to wash your hands after applying insect protection.
Step 17: Water is a problem around your home.
The mosquitoes lay their eggs in the water.You may end up with an outbreak of mosquitoes if the water has puddled or pooled.If you can, drain the water so it doesn't pool up.After any rain, empty the containers outside that collect water.The outdoor containers should be covered with a tight lid to keep mosquitoes out.Clean and empty vases, pet water bowls, and birdbaths once a week.