When Mosquito Bites, Apply Soap

Are you familiar with Skeeter Syndrome?

I haven't received a diagnosis from a doctor, but... I think I have Skeeter Syndrome.

All the symptoms I experience after being bitten by a mosquito perfectly match the symptoms of Skeeter Syndrome.

What is Skeeter Syndrome?

Skeeter syndrome is a large local allergic reaction to mosquito bites marked by significant inflammation. If you have it, you’re allergic to substances in the mosquito’s saliva. Some people have so much swelling that they have trouble moving.

- my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23289-skeeter-syndrome

Symptoms of Skeeter Syndrome

It refers to allergic reactions that occur after being bitten by a mosquito.

Once I get bitten by a mosquito, I have to endure all of the following symptoms.

(For reference, I have very dry and sensitive skin.)

• Extremely itchy
• Aching to the point of pain
• Swelling severely and looking unsightly
• Fever
• Inflammation often occurs
• Pus and scabbing
• Even after applying compresses to soothe the area, it becomes itchy again at the same time I was bitten, and this repeats for about 10 days
• Despite consciously trying not to scratch, the areas I touch inevitably become discolored
• By the end of summer, my arms and legs are covered with mosquito bite marks, making them look unsightly
• If the itching is severe and I have a fever, I need to apply or take antihistamines

Do you experience similar symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito?

If so, it means you're allergic to a substance (hirudin) in mosquito saliva.

Because of this, even when I saw a giant cockroach (no exaggeration, it was thicker than my index finger... -.-) flying around while I was living in Australia, I just reacted with a 'Wow, it's big' and remained indifferent. But I absolutely panic at the sound of a mosquito 'eeeng'.

My Frantic Efforts to Cope with Mosquito Bites

There's nothing I haven't tried when it comes to treating mosquito bites. Here are some methods and their effectiveness:

• Hot water or hot pack compress: It feels hot while doing this, and it's especially dangerous for children due to the risk of burns.
• Don't scratch, but make a plus (+) sign with your fingernail: The emphasis is on 'don't scratch', but it was completely ineffective.
• Ice pack: This is what I used to reduce swelling and fever.
• Antihistamine ointment or oral medication: When the itching is unbearable, applying ointment or taking medication is the best option.
• Anti-inflammatory or antibiotic ointment: I used this when there was inflammation, pus, or scabbing.

The Power of Collective Intelligence!

All the methods mentioned above are like after-the-fact remedies.

It's best not to get bitten in the first place, but is that really up to me?

Just when I thought there was no solution for mosquito bites, I recently came across an innovative post online.

It explained that the hirudin in mosquito saliva acidifies the skin at the bite site, causing the itching sensation. Therefore, applying an alkaline substance like soap neutralizes the pH, making it less itchy!

Applying Soap to Mosquito Bites

To repay the kindness of those who shared this information, I'm sharing my experience after putting it into practice.

I think it would be particularly beneficial for pregnant women or children who are hesitant to use ointments on mosquito bites.

"Immediately after a mosquito bite! Run to the nearest bathroom and wash the area thoroughly with soapy water.

Just following this step will get you halfway there.

"Whenever the itching comes back, apply soap generously to the bite site, rubbing it like a cream."

My Experience with Applying Soap

So, how did it work?

First, I'm happy with the results. Hehe~

The immediate pH neutralization effect was effective even on areas that were already scratched and damaged.

I got bitten three times while taking an evening stroll by the beach, and every time I felt itchy, I applied soap (it's convenient to use the leftover soapy water in the soap dish). And guess what? Immediately after applying it, the itching disappeared, and I slept soundly!

Surprisingly, after about a week, the bite marks faded significantly.

Those who have similar experiences will immediately understand.

The healing process is completely different.

Last year, the experiment I did whenever I was bitten by a mosquito was a complete success!

I made it through the summer with almost no scars on my legs. Oh my goodness!

Summer is back again.

I don't feel as afraid of encountering those pesky mosquitoes anymore.

I have two bars of soap, after all. :D

Adding Another Stone to the Pile of Collective Wisdom

Mosquitos and I, both burdened with the original sin of being unable to synthesize our own energy.

Even now, when I get bitten, I still feel a surge of anger, but now that I know how to protect myself, I even feel a little sorry for mosquitoes.

Their fate is to risk their lives for a single meal, or even to lay eggs...

These days, I also make cinnamon spray and use it before going for walks, and I definitely feel like mosquitoes are less attracted to me.

I'll do more experiments with the cinnamon spray and share the results later : )

It's great that I don't have to apply medication or buy any special products.

Sharing Makes it More Abundant, Right?

When I shared this with my acquaintances, I learned a new tip: they'll prepare bar soap for outdoor activities.

If you've been bitten by a mosquito, try this method and let's share our experiences.

But the best thing is to avoid getting bitten in the first place. Shoo, shoo!