Increased sensitivity to mosquito bites and other insects is called insect allergy by doctors. It occurs due to a distorted reaction of the body to the biologically active substances contained in the saliva of mosquitoes. An allergy to a mosquito bite in a child causes local and general manifestations. And if the former are represented by relatively harmless local swelling, redness and itching, then the latter may require serious treatment (even in a hospital setting). The so-called systemic anaphylactic reaction occurs due to the strong rejection of a foreign protein by the body. Such an allergy is manifested by general intoxication, nausea and vomiting, headache, fever. Insect bites to the head and neck area most often lead to a systemic reaction.
Mosquito-like allergies can also be caused by other insects. Local swelling (papule) with redness and itching is quite typical for this situation. By the way, we note that not only an insect bite can cause allergies. Not less thandangerous is the so-called respiratory reaction of the body, which occurs when inhaling both the insects themselves and their metabolic products. Alarming signs in this case are a sharp runny nose, sneezing, hoarseness, coughing attacks up to suffocation.
When the bite is dangerous
I must say that anaphylactic allergy to a mosquito bite in a child is extremely rare, but nevertheless such cases are known and well described.
If redness and swelling at the site of the bite reach a diameter of 5-10 cm, persist for at least a day and are accompanied by severe itching, then it's time to see a doctor. If at any time there are signs that an allergy to a mosquito bite in a child has become systemic, you need to call an ambulance. Danger signs include massive hives, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, and sometimes choking.
First Aid
It is advisable not to scratch or scratch the bite mark. It can be treated with a soda solution, but it is better to use an ointment ("Fenistil gel" or "Psilo-balm"). In extreme tourist conditions, to eliminate a local reaction, you can use gruel from crushed leaves of bird cherry, wormwood or juniper, as well as plantain leaves.
If your child is allergic to mosquito bites like anaphylaxis, do not self-medicate, but seek medical help immediately. Atif there are any delays and obstacles, give the child any antihistamine drug (strictly following, of course, the instructions and age dosage). A visit to the hospital is essential, as mosquito bite allergies can have a completely different origin and lead to serious complications.
Better defend yourself
Prevention is always useful, but if a child has a tendency to any kind of allergy, it is necessary to protect him especially carefully from insect bites. Avoid evening walks near water bodies, protect the premises with mosquito nets and fumigators, wear clothes that cover your arms and legs as much as possible. A fairly reliable way is to treat the skin and clothes with special means (repellents). However, first you need to make sure that the child is not allergic to them!
