Allergic to Mosquito Bites: The Alarming Symptoms of Skeeter Syndrome

At Mosquito Squad of Southeastern Massachusetts, some of our clients have come to us for help because they or their children are allergic to mosquitoes. Nearly everyone reacts to mosquito bites in some way, shape or form. The familiar red itchy bump is rather annoying, but not alarming. But some are allergic to mosquito bites and can suffer a more severe reaction known as Skeeter Syndrome.

Are you allergic to mosquitoes?

The typical reaction to a mosquito bite is caused by our immune system’s reaction to the protein a mosquito injects into us when they bite. Histamine is released to trigger white blood cells to move to the area to defend against this foreign protein. The histamine is what causes the customary red, itchy, swelled bite.

When someone is allergic to that protein, Skeeter Syndrome can occur. If you are unfamiliar with the symptoms of Skeeter Syndrome, it might not be clear if you are allergic to mosquitoes or if something else is going on. You might be having a regular reaction, or you might have an infected mosquito bite. Check out the symptoms so you can determine the difference.

Symptoms of Skeeter Syndrome

If you are allergic to mosquitoes, you may experience some of the following symptoms:

• A significantly larger bite (especially if bigger than a quarter)
• A large area of itching
• Lesions
• Bruising near the bite
• Hives around the bite
• Inflammation of the lymph system
• Anaphylaxis (swelling of the throat and problems breathing)

In some cases, a very severe reaction can occur, and if so, you should seek immediate medical attention. Those alarming symptoms can include fever, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, rash, fatigue, light sensitivity, confusion, or neurological symptoms.

Note: Mosquito bites can easily become infected due to scratching. If one rips open, be sure to keep it clean and use an antibacterial ointment to avoid infection. An infected mosquito bite can swell bigger and turn red too.

Treatment for a Mosquito Bite Allergy

If you are allergic to mosquito bites, the typically recommended hydrocortisone cream probably won’t provide enough relief. The use of oral antihistamines, topical anti-itch cream, or a cool bath with no soap can provide some relief. In cases of Anaphylaxis, the use of an epinephrine auto-injector may be necessary.

Mosquito Control for your Southeastern Massachusetts Home

If you have a strong reaction, are sensitive to mosquito bites or suffer from Skeeter Syndrome, we highly recommend mosquito control services for your backyard. Our product can reduce mosquitoes by as much as 90% and comes with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Get started by calling today for a FREE quote.

We are pleased to provide award-winning mosquito services to Fall River, Taunton, New Bedford, Lakeville, Bridgewater, Plymouth, Scituate, and most of the South Coast.