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The reason why mosquito bites itch
Table of contents
The answer to why mosquito bites itch, though simple, is a bit unpleasant. Mosquito bites itch because of the saliva that the insect spits on us when it bites. To explain why mosquito saliva itches, we first need to explain what the saliva contains:
Components of mosquito saliva that explain why mosquito bites itch
Mosquito saliva contains a complex mixture of substances that facilitate these insects’ feeding while minimizing the host’s sensations. Let’s take a closer look at the components and their functions to understand why mosquito bites itch:
Anticoagulants:
- Main Function: They prevent the blood from clotting in the mosquito’s proboscis (its stomach), ensuring a constant flow during feeding.
- Impact on Humans: These anticoagulants are often the triggers of the immune response that causes inflammation and itching.
Enzymes:
- Various functions: These enzymes help break down the host’s proteins, facilitating digestion once the blood is ingested.
- Side effects: They can cause local tissue degradation, contributing to the allergic reaction.
Immunomodulatory proteins:
- Objective: They modify the host’s immune response to allow the mosquito to feed undetected.
- Consequences: These proteins can confuse or suppress local defenses, making some people more susceptible to more intense or prolonged reactions.
Anti-inflammatory agents:
- Purpose: Some components act to reduce initial inflammation, allowing the mosquito to feed without causing immediate pain or discomfort to the bite recipient.
- Consequences in itch sensation: Inflammation appears after the mosquito has finished feeding because the effect of its anti-inflammatory agents ceases. When the inflammation effect kicks in suddenly, we notice it more intensely.
Each of these components plays a critical role in the mosquito’s ability to feed on blood without being immediately detected.
However, the combination of these substances on human skin is what causes the familiar itching and irritation reactions we experience after a bite. This is why mosquito bites itch.
Methods to relieve the itch of a mosquito bite
Now that we know why mosquito bites itch, the really useful thing is to know how to get rid of that annoying itch. If you’re interested in learning how to do this, check out our article “How to Relieve the Itch When a Mosquito Bites You,” where we share the essential steps to ease the itching sensation.
The best way to avoid itching is to prevent bites
As helpful as it is to know why mosquito bites itch and how to relieve itching, the ideal solution is to avoid getting bitten in the first place. To achieve this, consider using a mosquito net to protect you while you sleep.
Not only will it prevent your skin from getting bitten, but it will also help you sleep better. Here are the best mosquito nets so you can enjoy a mosquito-free night’s sleep.
Discover all our mosquito nets
The Panji
AUD$78⌀ 60 cm
In stock
The Intan
AUD$91⌀ 100 cm
In stock
The Ayu
AUD$104⌀ 60 cm
In stock
The Bulan
AUD$131⌀ 100 cm
In stock
The Mawar
AUD$117W: 160 cm / L: 220 cm / H: 240 cm
In stock
Bambulah offers you a great choice of mosquito nets! Our self-designed mosquito nets are about combining ultimate protection and iconic style. Do you want to find out what kind of mosquito nets we have on offer? Feel free to explore our full collection!
