Mosquito bites typically cause a raised, red, itchy bump on the skin. This reaction is due to the mosquito's saliva entering the bloodstream. The severity of the reaction varies from person to person.
Common Side Effects:
- Itching and Redness: This is the most common reaction, resulting in a puffy and reddish bump that appears minutes to hours after the bite. The bump may be hard and itchy, sometimes reddish-brown. [Source: CDC, Mayo Clinic, WebMD]
- Swelling: Some individuals experience significant swelling around the bite area. [Source: Provided text]
- Soreness: The bite site may be tender or sore to the touch. [Source: Provided text]
Less Common, More Severe Reactions:
- Allergic Reactions: In some cases, a mosquito bite can trigger an allergic reaction. Symptoms can range from hives to more severe reactions like swollen throat, faintness, and wheezing. This requires immediate medical attention. [Source: Cleveland Clinic]
- Infection: Although uncommon, secondary bacterial infections can occur if the bite is scratched and becomes infected.
- Mosquito-Borne Diseases: Mosquitoes can transmit various diseases, such as West Nile virus, Chikungunya, Zika virus, and malaria. These diseases have a range of symptoms from mild flu-like illness to more serious complications. [Source: CDC, Johns Hopkins Medicine, WHO] These are not directly side effects of the bite itself, but rather consequences of the mosquito carrying and transmitting pathogens.
Treatment of Common Symptoms:
Most mosquito bites resolve on their own within a few days. Simple treatments can alleviate itching and discomfort:
- Washing the bite with soap and water. [Source: Healthline]
- Applying a cool compress.
- Using over-the-counter anti-itch creams or lotions. [Source: Healthline]
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers. [Source: Healthline]
It's crucial to remember that if you experience severe symptoms, such as widespread swelling, difficulty breathing, or signs of infection, you should seek medical attention immediately.
