The warmer seasons of the year increase the proliferation of mosquitoes.
In addition to causing local discomfort, such as pain and itching, the bite of some of these insects can also transmit serious diseases (such as leishmaniasis, yellow fever and dengue ) or generate allergic reactions, causing skin irritations.
Thinking about it, we brought some treatment options and tips to relieve the symptoms of allergies to mosquito bites. Come check it out!
Contents
How is the treatment for insect bites done?
Most mosquito bites do not result in major complications. Despite this, they can be very uncomfortable.
To relieve symptoms, some treatments include the use of creams and ointments, or even oral antihistamines, if the bites are multiple.
In addition, one way to prevent infections or aggravation of the bites is to avoid scratching. This is because the nail can cause sores on the skin, thus facilitating the entry of bacteria.
Ointments for mosquito bite
Using topical corticosteroids improves the local reaction and reduces itching. The dosage may vary according to the product, but are usually indicated from 1 to 3 applications per day.
These drugs have in their formulation antiallergic, antipruritic (prevent itching), antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and healing action.
However, if there is any type of allergic reaction, it is recommended to consult a specialist doctor, as each organism reacts differently to insect bites.
The monitoring of the professional is also important, as some ointments can be photosensitizing, that is, they can cause blemishes when the skin is exposed to the sun.
Among the active ingredients of medium and high potency, indicated in this type of treatment, are mometasone, methylprednisolone and betamethasone. Here are some options:
Topison
Indicated for the relief of inflammation and itching, this medication is a synthetic corticosteroid, based on mometasone , which works by narrowing blood vessels. It has fast action and it is possible to notice improvement in one week of treatment.
This medication should not be used in children under 2 years old and should be used in accordance with the medical guidelines and instructions contained in the package insert.
Advantan Creme
Advantan works by reducing allergic and inflammatory skin reactions, relieving redness, swelling and itching. The drug has as its active ingredient methylprednisolone aceponate , a corticosteroid classified as a potent anti-inflammatory agent with a fast and effective response profile.
Its application should be done only once a day in the affected regions. In addition, treatment should not exceed 12 weeks and should not be stopped without medical knowledge.
The application of the product is contraindicated in cases of rosacea, dermatitis, ulcers, acne and diseases caused by viruses.
Diprosone
Indicated for the relief of inflammation and itching, Diprosone is made with betamethasone . As it has a prolonged vasoconstrictor effect, its frequency of application is lower, with recommended use every 12 hours.
The drug should not be used in people with skin infections caused by viruses and / or fungi and patients with skin infections caused by bacteria that are not being treated. It is also contraindicated for children under 2 years.
Caladryl
Caladryl is a recommended medication to relieve symptoms related to insect bites, allergies, skin irritations, hives or burns. It has antiallergic, analgesic and skin protective effect.
This ointment has a quick effect, which can be noticed right after its application. However, it should not be used on blisters, wounds or areas with secretion. In addition, the use of Caladryl in chickenpox or measles lesions is not recommended .
Baby creams and ointments
Because their skin and immune system are still very fragile, babies under 2 years of age should not use topical ointments, creams or repellents – except when medically recommended.
The orientation is always to resort to the treatment indicated by a pediatrician.
However, in children older than 2 years it is already possible to resort to ointments. In such cases, it is recommended to use creams such as:
Fenergan
It has antiallergic properties and is used to treat allergy symptoms (especially insect bites) and skin irritations.
This medicine contains promethazine , a substance capable of countering the symptoms of histamine, produced by the body during an allergic reaction.
Polaramine
This medicine is indicated for the relief of itching, hives and insect bites. It should not be applied to the eyes, mouth, nose, genitals or other mucous membranes, nor should it be used on large areas of the skin, especially in children.
The application can be done under the affected area twice a day.
histamine
Histamin Cream is an antiallergic used to relieve itching, allergies, itching, hives and insect bites. Made with dexchlorpheniramine , the same active ingredient in Polaramine, it can also be applied twice a day.
Antiallergics for oral use
It may be necessary to use antihistamines (antiallergics) for oral use in larger or larger lesions.
In addition, as long as there is a medical recommendation, these drugs can be used in young children, improving irritability, itching and even the child’s sleep.
Know some options:
Polaramine Drops
Intended for allergies and hives, polaramine is an antihistamine that works by reducing the symptoms of allergy to the bite. This medicine is contraindicated for newborn children or people who are using monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Histamin Syrup
Histamin is used to treat various allergic manifestations, such as dermatitis and insect bites.
During treatment, the patient should not drink alcohol. In addition, the drug is not indicated for breastfeeding babies and lactating women.
Home remedies for mosquito bite
If you have been unable to escape mosquito bites and are suffering from itching, there are some home treatments that can relieve symptoms.
It is important to note that many treatments that are presented on the internet do not have scientific proof. Therefore, always consult a doctor before using any type of treatment.
Some alternatives include:
Making ice packs
Applying damp and icy cloths to the bite provides an anesthetic effect in the region, in addition to preventing inflammatory substances from spreading to other parts of the body.
Taking an oatmeal bath
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), this type of treatment seeks to reduce the swelling, pain, itching and inflammation that affects the skin. The mixture contains milk, oats and ice water that can be applied gently with a cloth.
Apply creams and lotions
Some substances, such as camphor, calamine and even menthol, can be used to relieve the symptoms of the bite. However, it is necessary to take care at the time of application, as there may be irritation or even burning in the place.
Why does mosquito bite swell and cause pain?
Although mosquito bites and bites can often be considered harmless, in some cases they can cause pain and even severe allergic reactions.
When biting, these insects release substances in our body, such as anesthetics and anticoagulants, which can cause a lot of discomfort.
In response to the inflammatory process, our immune system produces defense substances, such as histamine, responsible for making the skin swollen, itchy and red in appearance.
Most mosquito bites cause only local discomfort, but do not cause any major complications. The most important thing is to avoid scratching the spot to avoid a secondary infection caused by bacteria.
Do you know someone who suffers from the bites? Then share this article so that other people can relieve the symptoms too!