Spring in Tennessee is a beautiful time of year. Unfortunately, though, the humid weather often brings a lot of mosquitoes along with it.

If you are someone who is susceptible to lots of mosquito bites, there are many effective ways to both prevent and treat these bites! Read on to learn more from our AFC Urgent Care Cleveland team.

What Actually Happens When a Mosquito Bites?

A mosquito “bite” isn’t really as much of a bite as it is a piercing and sucking of blood. When a mosquito bites you, it pierces the skin using its special mouthpart (proboscis) to suck up blood. Then it injects saliva into the skin, which causes swelling and itching.

Some people have only a mild reaction to mosquito bites, while others experience more swelling and redness. Below, we’ve listed some effective ways to treat mosquito bites at home.

Ways to Treat Mosquito Bites

• Wash the area with soap and water.
• Apply an ice pack for 10 minutes to reduce swelling and itching.
• Use an over-the-counter anti-itch or antihistamine cream to help relieve itching.
• Consider applying a mixture of water and baking soda to the bite, which can help relieve itchiness. Mix one tablespoon baking soda with just enough water to create a paste, apply the past to the bite, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse it off.

Can Mosquito Bites Be Cause for Serious Concern?

In rare cases, they can. It’s highly unlikely for the bite itself to cause serious complications in Tennessee, since viruses like West Nile and malaria aren’t common in the States.

What could become more serious, though, is a mosquito bite that has become infected through scratching. Infected bites can make their way into the bloodstream, causing even more serious complications, and they will often be red and feel warm. Prevent mosquito bites by considering the tips we’ve listed below!

Ways to Prevent Mosquito Bites

• Use EPA-registered insect repellents.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors, especially in wooded areas.
• Control mosquitoes inside and outside.

We can provide care for all of your non-emergency spring and summer ailments! Don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC center today.