Why does bug bites itch

But when you think of bug bites you have gotten on your arms or legs, you probably think of the itchy bites caused by mosquitoes. So, why do these bug bites itch?

And why do mosquitoes bite people in the first place? Mosquitoes bite because they need blood to lay their eggs. Minus Related Pages. Credit: Getty Images. Anti-itch cream for a mosquito bite. Treat clothing and gear with permethrin. Links with this icon indicate that you are leaving the CDC website. A study found that natural honey can reduce inflammation and prevent infection. For this reason, natural honey may help reduce the symptoms of a mosquito bite when applied to the affected area.

It is essential to wash it off before going outside, as it can attract mosquitoes and other insects. As these creams are steroid based, people should use them sparingly and should not apply them to open wounds. They may also cause the skin to thin with repeated use. One species of aloe, Aloe littoralis , has been shown to reduce inflammation and encourage wound healing in animal studies.

A study on animals found basil oil helped to relieve inflammation in arthritis. The anti-inflammatory properties of basil oil suggest it could help to relieve mosquito bite inflammation. Mosquito bites can become infected, which may mean they take longer to heal.

It is a good idea for a person to speak to a doctor about any suspected infections. Some people are very allergic to mosquito bites.

For these people, being bitten may cause an anaphylactic shock. Symptoms of this include:. If a person has an anaphylactic shock, they need emergency medical treatment, usually an injection of epinephrine through an EpiPen.

A person should speak to a doctor if they experience these symptoms. A doctor will typically recommend over-the-counter antihistamines to treat these symptoms in the first instance.

Bites from the mosquito species Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus , are linked with a number of diseases. These include Zika , dengue, and chikungunya. If a person is traveling to a country where mosquitoes may be carrying disease, they should speak to their doctor for advice.

A swollen red mark may then form on your skin, which can last a few hours and may be painful and itchy. Sometimes a larger area around the sting can be painful, red and swollen for up to a week. This is a minor allergic reaction that is not usually anything to worry about. A few people may experience a serious allergic reaction anaphylaxis , causing breathing difficulties, dizziness and a swollen face or mouth. Dial for an ambulance immediately if you have these symptoms.

A bee sting feels similar to a wasp sting, but the sting will often be left in the wound. See treating insect bites for advice about how to remove this safely. The sting can cause pain, redness and swelling for a few hours. As with wasp stings, some people may have a mild allergic reaction that lasts up to a week.

Serious allergic reactions can also occasionally occur, causing breathing difficulties, dizziness and a swollen face or mouth. Bites from mosquitoes often cause small red lumps on your skin. These are usually very itchy. Some people may also develop fluid-filled blisters.

Mosquitoes don't cause major harm in the UK, but in some parts of the world they can spread serious illnesses such as malaria.