Mosquito bite allergies can cause more severe symptoms than normal reactions, such as swelling, rashes, and difficulty breathing. Female mosquitoes inject saliva that contains proteins that can trigger an immune response. In rare cases, anaphylaxis can occur, requiring immediate medical attention.
An allergy to mosquito bites is a common condition, though it can be hard to tell if the specific symptoms qualify as an actual allergic reaction. Many people will develop mild swelling and itching after being bitten by a mosquito, and this technically constitutes a mild allergic reaction. To be considered a true mosquito bite allergy, these symptoms need to be a little more severe than what is considered a normal reaction to mosquito bites. Symptoms of a true allergy involve more severe swelling around the bite site and can sometimes lead to the development of a widespread rash, hives, or difficulty breathing.
It is only female mosquitoes that have a biological need to feed on human blood. When the mosquito bites, a small amount of the mosquito’s saliva is injected into the affected person. This saliva contains proteins that prevent human blood from clotting and proteins that allow blood to flow into the mosquito’s mouth. These foreign proteins are attacked by the immune system of the person who has been bitten, and this process can lead to a variety of physical symptoms.
In some cases, a person can be bitten by a mosquito and have no adverse side effects. In the vast majority of cases, however, mild swelling and itching may develop. A person who has an allergy to mosquito bites can develop a number of more serious symptoms.
Some of the possible symptoms that indicate an allergy to mosquito bites include redness and swelling around the bite area. A large area of skin surrounding the bite may develop a rash, and in some cases, blisters may develop in the area surrounding the rash. These blisters often hurt and itch at the same time. Occasionally, a widespread rash can develop all over the body.
In rare cases, a serious allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis can occur. This is a medical emergency and immediate medical attention is urgently needed to prevent a potentially life-threatening situation. Symptoms can include swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing. Some patients may experience dizziness, confusion or a complete loss of consciousness. Following this type of severe allergic reaction, the patient will usually need to carry an injectable medication with them at all times in case this situation recurs.
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