One bite from a mosquito can result in severe itchiness and swelling and sometimes can cause diseases such as malaria as well as dengue. Only the female mosquito bites and sucks blood from human and animals while the male get their foods on the nectar and juices of plants.
The mosquito punctures the skin using their needle-like structure called proboscis and during the bite they release a saliva that causes itching and swelling.
Mosquito bites on the eyelids can lead to severe swelling than in any part of the body that is bitten by the mosquito because the skin on the eyelids is loose and sensitive. With only a little bite, it can cause severe swelling and there is difficulty closing the eye. The bites of mosquitoes can cause accumulation of fluid on the eye while the color of the eyelid becomes pale-pinkish. The swelling is soft similar to a water balloon and the eyelid becomes bouncy. There is itchiness of the eyelid but does not cause pain and when the swelling has disappeared, there is a presence of red dot which is the bitten area.
Treatment
- Apply an ice pack by using a few ice cubes and wrap it in clean cloth and place it on the affected area for a few minutes to lessen the itching and swelling. Apply an ice pack every hour for at least 2-3 times every day.
- Apply an aloe vera gel to relieve the swelling and itchiness caused by a mosquito bite. Aloe vera gel has natural antibacterial properties that help in preventing infections. Chill aloe Vera gel before applying to the affected area for best result.
- Using salt helps lessen unwanted symptoms caused by a mosquito bite. Prepare the solution by mixing salt in a glass of water. Wash the affected eyelid using the solution. Salt contains a mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory property that helps with the condition. Another way is by swimming in sea water because salt water has natural salt properties.
- Using baking soda also helps to lessen itching and swelling caused by a mosquito bite due to its alkaline properties. The skin is neutralized which helps lessen the itchiness. Make a paste by mixing one teaspoon of baking soda and a few drops of water. Mix them well until it becomes a paste, apply it on the affected eyelid and avoid getting inside the eyes. Rinse the area using lukewarm water after 10-15 minutes.
- Toothpaste helps lessen the itching and swelling. Take a small amount of toothpaste that contains menthol or peppermint and dab it on the affected area of the eyelid. Toothpaste has anti-inflammatory properties and helps with the fast healing of the infection.
- If the affected person develops hives, wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty in swallowing and swelling and the pain becomes persistent, seek medical help immediately.