Summer is supposed to be time for fun and sun.

However, the annoyance of mosquitoes and their itchy, scratchy bites is enough to keep some people indoors.

I am one of those people.

No matter how much repellent I use, it never seems to be enough. And the older I get, the bigger the bites swell.

This got me wondering whether some people are more susceptible to bites than others and what remedies work best.

Prevea Pulaski Health Center family medicine physician Scott Schinschke said mosquito bite reactions can vary depending on skin sensitivity, but usually become less severe with age as the body builds up an immunity to the insect's saliva.

"This is similar to getting allergy shots where you get little bits of proteins from those allergens every day," Schinschke said. "Eventually you become desensitized."

Although people tend to think of mosquito bites as being skin-deep, Bellin Health primary care physician Alyssa Kasper said some adverse reactions may require hospitalization.

"You definitely know something is wrong if someone is having trouble breathing after a bite," Kasper said.

Whether you have mild or unbearable reactions to bites, if you feel you are a mosquito magnet, you could be right.

Schinschke said although it has not been proven scientifically, doctors have noticed those with type O blood tend to get bit more often. In addition, he said, obesity could be factor because both sweat and carbon dioxide are known to lure bugs.

Your wardrobe also could be cause for concern.

"Mosquitoes seem to be attracted to darker colors," Schinschke said. "So, wearing lighter-colored clothing and keeping yourself covered as much as possible are things you can do."

There are many remedies for bites out there. Some swear by a mixture of baking soda and water, some prefer Bactine or other topical treatments, while others habitually press an 'X' into bites with their fingernail.

Kasper said the 'X' does not help.

Then where did this idea come from?

Although she won't vouch for the accuracy of the story, Kasper said she heard it may have started a long time ago when people believed imprinting a cross into the bite meant God would take the itch away.

Schinschke said he hadn't heard of the 'X' and suspected it may be effective only because applying pressure triggers a different signal to the brain.

As for treatments with proven results, both Schinschke and Kasper recommend using repellants regularly to avoid bites, and using hydrocortisone ointment or antihistamines such as Benadryl to relieve itch.


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