Post by artisans on Sept 4, 2009 11:03:50 GMT 2
.... to make a difference, then you've never been to bed with a mozzie!
You've heard it before but, personally, we have had very little awareness of mosquitos over the last few weeks, until last night when something seemed to switch them on - not seriously, but let's say, we noticed. If you are at all bothered, the travel magazine Suite 101 has some interesting suggestions.
Mosquitoes are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, so do use a net if you are seriously bothered.
Ventilation works to keep mosquitoes from landing on sleeping travelers. One or more electric fans, set on high and directed at the bed, will make everyone more comfortable.
What Causes Mosquito Bites to Itch?
Science says the first time a person is bitten there is no reaction to the tenderising enzymes and blood thinning substances the mosquito injects through her needle-like mouth parts (only the females bite). After repeated encounters the body forms antibodies against proteins in those substances which produce small, itchy red bumps a day later—this reaction is common in young children. The skin of older children and teenagers, sensitised by many more bites, produces an uncomfortable hive within minutes after a bite, followed by itchy red bumps the next day. Sensitisation as we age decreases until most adults no longer react.
Reactions to mosquito bites vary, but not scratching is the best advice. Scratching or rubbing creates a stronger inflammatory response that may last for days. Evening Primrose Oil is a natural anti-inflammatory when taken orally.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Ibuprofen reduces the pain, redness and swelling of bites. Old-style antihistamines such as diphenhydramine quell reactions but cause drowsiness in adults and hyperactivity in young children. Among newer antihistamines, ceterizine is very effective, Claritin is not.
Home Remedies
Anything cold will help temporarily. A paste of baking soda and water may neutralise skin reactions. Aloe vera is soothing, as are menthol preparations. Alcohol, bar soap, alum, calamine and witch hazel have astringent properties that relieve itching. Tea tree oil and flouridated toothpaste have also been suggested.
You've heard it before but, personally, we have had very little awareness of mosquitos over the last few weeks, until last night when something seemed to switch them on - not seriously, but let's say, we noticed. If you are at all bothered, the travel magazine Suite 101 has some interesting suggestions.
Mosquitoes are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, so do use a net if you are seriously bothered.
Ventilation works to keep mosquitoes from landing on sleeping travelers. One or more electric fans, set on high and directed at the bed, will make everyone more comfortable.
What Causes Mosquito Bites to Itch?
Science says the first time a person is bitten there is no reaction to the tenderising enzymes and blood thinning substances the mosquito injects through her needle-like mouth parts (only the females bite). After repeated encounters the body forms antibodies against proteins in those substances which produce small, itchy red bumps a day later—this reaction is common in young children. The skin of older children and teenagers, sensitised by many more bites, produces an uncomfortable hive within minutes after a bite, followed by itchy red bumps the next day. Sensitisation as we age decreases until most adults no longer react.
Reactions to mosquito bites vary, but not scratching is the best advice. Scratching or rubbing creates a stronger inflammatory response that may last for days. Evening Primrose Oil is a natural anti-inflammatory when taken orally.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Ibuprofen reduces the pain, redness and swelling of bites. Old-style antihistamines such as diphenhydramine quell reactions but cause drowsiness in adults and hyperactivity in young children. Among newer antihistamines, ceterizine is very effective, Claritin is not.
Home Remedies
Anything cold will help temporarily. A paste of baking soda and water may neutralise skin reactions. Aloe vera is soothing, as are menthol preparations. Alcohol, bar soap, alum, calamine and witch hazel have astringent properties that relieve itching. Tea tree oil and flouridated toothpaste have also been suggested.