Home remedies for mosquito bites – how to quickly relieve itching and swelling.

What happens during a mosquito bite?
When a mosquito bites, it not only takes blood but also introduces its saliva into the skin, which contains substances that act as anticoagulants. These proteins trigger an allergic reaction in many people – the body treats them as foreign invaders and activates its defense mechanisms. As a result, inflammation occurs, leading to itching and irritation.
Typical symptoms of a mosquito bite include redness around the bite site, swelling, and persistent itching. In children, these symptoms can be more intense and last for several days, making it crucial to quickly and effectively alleviate these discomforts.

First aid after a mosquito bite
When a child is bitten by a mosquito, the first step should be gently washing the bite area with clean water. This helps remove any potential contaminants and soothes the skin irritation. Then, it's helpful to apply a cold compress or a cooled pack to the bite, which will quickly reduce swelling and relieve itching.
It’s very important that the child does not scratch the bite. Scratching can damage the skin, increasing the risk of infection and inflammation. It's helpful to explain to children that, despite the itching, it’s better to resist scratching and, if necessary, use appropriate soothing remedies.

Home remedies for relieving itching and swelling
After a mosquito bite, it’s worth turning to tried-and-true natural methods that help quickly alleviate itching and reduce swelling. Here are some simple remedies you can use at home:

Baking soda paste – Mix baking soda with a little water until a thick paste forms. Apply it to the bite and leave it for a few minutes. Baking soda neutralizes the mosquito’s saliva, soothing irritation and itching.

Aloe vera or fresh mint leaf compresses – Aloe vera and mint have cooling and soothing properties. Apply aloe vera gel or fresh mint leaves to the skin to reduce inflammation and provide relief.

Honey – Thanks to its antibacterial and soothing properties, honey can be applied to the bite, helping prevent infection and speeding up skin regeneration.

Chamomile or green tea compresses – Chamomile and green tea are natural anti-inflammatory agents. Soak a cotton pad in these teas and place it on the skin for a few minutes to reduce swelling and irritation.

Tea tree oil (diluted) – It has antiseptic properties, helping to prevent infections. However, remember to dilute the oil before use to avoid irritating the child’s delicate skin.

When to see a doctor?
Most mosquito bites are harmless and can be safely treated at home. However, in certain situations, a medical consultation is necessary, especially if symptoms suggest an allergic reaction or infection.
Pay attention to severe swelling and redness that extends significantly beyond the bite site, as well as high fever and pus formation, which may indicate a skin infection.
Contact a doctor immediately if the child has trouble breathing, experiences strong allergic reactions like facial swelling or difficulty swallowing, or if these symptoms require urgent care.
Also, if the child scratches the bite until it forms wounds that begin to get infected, prompt medical intervention is needed to prevent more serious complications.

Preventing mosquito bites in children
Preventing mosquito bites is key to enjoying safe and comfortable outdoor time, especially for the youngest. Here are some proven methods to help protect children from unpleasant bites:

Clothing – Choose light-colored, long clothing that will effectively protect the child's skin from bites. A hat or a cap with a brim provides extra protection from insects.

Insect repellents – Use only products that are safe for children and designed for delicate skin. Always check the manufacturer's instructions and the child’s age before use.

Avoiding walks at dusk – Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn, so it's a good idea to avoid areas with high mosquito activity, such as near water bodies or dense bushes.

Mosquito nets and physical barriers – Installing mosquito nets on windows and children's cribs is an effective way to reduce a child's contact with insects. Outdoors, it’s useful to use tents or special protective nets.

By following these simple rules, you can significantly reduce the risk of bites and ensure that children enjoy safe and peaceful moments outdoors.

See also:

• What to Do When a Child Gets Stung by a Wasp? Home Remedies for Quick Pain and Swelling Relief
• Sunstroke in a child – symptoms and quick response
• First aid for cuts and abrasions in children – what should every parent know?
• How to reduce swelling after a bruise – effective home remedies for quick swelling reduction
• Parent's essentials: first aid kit for a family vacation