Scratch, scratch, scratch. Itchy, itchy, itchy. It starts with a couple of mosquito bites on my ankle, then the burning sensation creeps up to the skin behind my knees where I’ve got four more bites. Before I know it, I’m scratching and itching everywhere.
Soon enough, the bites on my ankles are bleeding, and the ones behind my knees are red and raw. I try spraying them with Benadryl—no relief. I even attempt that nail-cross remedy, pressing my nail into the bite in a cross pattern to distract from the itching. That doesn’t work either.
Having grown up in the countryside, I’m no stranger to the annoyance of mosquito bites. This is just part of summer living, right? Or maybe not.
Interestingly, some people are more prone to mosquito bites than others, influenced by factors like blood type, body chemistry, and even the presence of a beer (yes, mosquitoes are attracted to beer).
While most individuals see the itching fade within a few days, for some unfortunate people, this is just the beginning of a more severe reaction. According to Everyday Health, some individuals experience a heightened allergic response called “skeeter syndrome.” Wait, what?! A more severe condition than multiple mosquito bites that have been scratched raw? No thank you.
Fortunately, skeeter syndrome is a relatively uncommon inflammatory response to mosquito bites. Symptoms can appear hours after being bitten and may include significant swelling, heat, redness, itching, and pain resembling an infection.
Dr. Emily Carter, a dermatologist at the City Medical Center, explained to Everyday Health that the difference between typical mosquito bites and skeeter syndrome lies in the duration and size of the bite. Regular mosquito bites usually peak in swelling and redness about 20 minutes post-bite and are generally small—less than 3/4ths of an inch wide. In contrast, bites that lead to skeeter syndrome can create welts up to four inches within an hour and worsen over time. These bumps may also feel painful and warm to the touch.
“Skeeter syndrome occurs due to an allergic reaction to proteins found in mosquito saliva,” Dr. Carter shared. “There’s no straightforward blood test to identify mosquito antibodies; diagnosis relies on observing large red areas or swelling after a mosquito bite.”
This syndrome tends to be more prevalent among young children and infants, who haven’t yet developed immunity to mosquito saliva. Individuals with weakened immune systems may also be at a higher risk.
So, what can you do if you or your child suffer from skeeter syndrome? Experts recommend long-acting oral antihistamines or applying ice or topical steroids to the affected area. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe prednisone or other oral steroids. However, this isn’t medical advice; consult your healthcare provider if you suspect skeeter syndrome.
As frustrating as it sounds, the best strategy is to avoid getting bitten by these pesky insects in the first place. I know, easier said than done, especially once you’re already bitten.
Right now, I’m itching all over just thinking about it. Time to grab the Benadryl and DEET!
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