Joel Schlessinger MD FAQ - Mosquito Bites

Joel Schlessinger, MD

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TREATING AND PREVENTING MOSQUITO BITES

Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit http://www.LovelySkin.com/InsectBites to browse our full selection of products.

Contrary to the commonly held belief, mosquitoes don’t bite because they feed off of blood for nourishment. They actually survive on plant nectar and juices. Mosquitoes require a blood meal to help develop fertile eggs. This is why only female mosquitoes bite.

Why do mosquitoes bite?

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Bumps or welts could appear almost immediately after the initial bite or they could take a day or two to manifest. The bumps are generally white and puffy or hard and reddish-brown. Some individuals experience, bruising, swelling and blistering along with mosquito bites, but this is rare.

What are the characteristics of a mosquito bite?

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When a female mosquito uses her mouthparts to eat, she injects saliva to prevent clotting and make feeding easier. The proteins in mosquito saliva create an immune system reaction in humans that then results in mild to moderate itching. Mosquitoes are not venomous insects.

Why do mosquitoes leave behind an itchy welt or bump when they bite?

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Scientists continue to research what makes some people more palatable to mosquitoes than others. Increased carbon dioxide output seems to play a key role in inviting mosquitoes, as do various levels of naturally occurring chemicals and bacteria in the body. Certain synthetic fragrances may prove attractive as well.

Why are some people more attractive for mosquitoes to bite than others?

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Yes, mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, yellow fever, dengue fever and malaria through the saliva they inject. This is more common in tropical parts of the world. Mosquitoes do not spread blood-borne diseases like HIV and hepatitis.

Can mosquitoes carry disease?

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Most mosquito bites are more of a nuisance than a concern, and you won’t need to seek medical attention. However, if you experience flu-like symptoms that you suspect are connected to a mosquito bite, consult with your physician immediately. Bites may also become a concern if they grow infected due to excessive scratching. If the bite exhibits symptoms of infection, you should seek medical care.

Do I need to seek medical attention for a mosquito bite?

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The occasional bite is virtually unavoidable since mosquitoes have a knack for entering our spaces undetectably. However, there are several measures you can take to keep from being a mosquito magnet. To start, avoid going outside at dawn and dusk, which is when mosquitoes are most active. If you don’t want to compromise your time enjoying the outdoors, try these two tips.

How can I prevent mosquito bites?

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Mosquitoes have been known to use vision to spot their next meal. Blues, reds or blacks could render you more visible against the horizon. Choose light colors if you plan to be outdoors. You can also wear long sleeves with cuffs and pants, as well as tall socks and shoes that cover the ankle. A wide-brimmed hat may offer extra protection. You can purchase specially made mosquito nets to wear over your neck and face at camping supply stores.

Protective clothing

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DEET-based insect repellents have been proven to provide the best protection against mosquitoes and other insects. There are a wide variety of DEET-based products to choose from in different scents and formulations. Most come in a spray bottle or wipe, making them easy to use and pack at your convenience.

Insect repellant

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Bug zappers may be effective when it comes to warding off insects, but they aren’t the best method for defense against mosquitoes. Out of insects caught in a zapper, only a negligible percentage are mosquitoes. Trap designs are still evolving and it’s not a good idea to place too much faith in them for protection. Always protect your skin first and use other methods as backup.

Do bug zappers work and traps work?

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Many home remedies for mosquito bites are misguided because they rely on the act of attempting to draw venom out of the bite. There is simply no venom to extract because mosquitoes are not venomous! Other methods involve putting harsh chemicals like nail polish directly on the skin or rubbing on sweet foods like honey or banana. Harsh chemicals could cause an allergic reaction in the skin, while honey and fruit could attract more insects. You’re better off treating the symptoms of the bite such as itching and minor irritation. This will help you stay comfortable and avoid infection from too much scratching.

How can I treat my mosquito bites at home?

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Developed by Dr. Schlessinger, FixMySkin Healing Body Balm Unscented with 1% Hydrocortisone is the perfect product for treating annoying mosquito bite symptoms. The convenient, melt-resistant balm stick delivers hydrocortisone deep into the skin to help heal damaged cells and make bites disappear faster. Shea butter and cocoa butter keep the skin moisturized and help relieve itching and dryness.

FixMySkin Healing Body Balm with 1% Hydrocortisone

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Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit http://www.LovelySkin.com/InsectBites to browse our full selection of products.

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Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit http://www.LovelySkin.com/InsectBites to browse our full selection of products.