Ask GoodHealth.com When I get a mosquito bite, I get a large knot. Should I worry?
by Jason Reichenberg, MD

Home > Ask GoodHealth.com > 

Answer

If the knot completely goes away eventually, it shouldn't be a problem. A 1-2 centimeter nodule after a mosquito bite is usually just a hypersensitivity to mosquitoes. There are ways to avoid the problem in the future by wearing mosquito repellant on your skin and/or clothes. If you know that you are going somewhere that would be high- risk for getting bitten, you may consider bringing along Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to take immediately after you've been bitten. If this doesn't work, you may need to take a prescription medication either before the outing or immediately after being bit to reduce your allergic response to the mosquito bite.

However, if when you are bitten you have large areas of swelling (more than a few centimeters in diameter), have difficulty breathing, or have other systemic symptoms, you may have a severe allergy, which can get worse with repeated exposure. If you are experiencing a rapid worsening of symptoms, you may have a life-threatening reaction and need immediate medical attention. If this is a long-term problem, you need to go to an Allergist or Dermatologist to receive medication to keep around in case it ever happens again. You may be given oral, topical, or injectable medication may be needed 'just in case.'

If the nodule persists for more than a few weeks, it is worth getting the area looked at by a Dermatologist or skin care professional. Often, a patient assumes that their bump was a mosquito bite, but it was actually the start of something more serious. It's worth getting it checked out.


Ask GoodHealth.com is intended for consumer education only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider with questions regarding your personal health or medical condition.


When I get a mosquito bite, I get a large knot. Should I worry?      

By Jason Reichenberg, MD

Director Of Dermatology-University of Texas Medical Branch in Austin

Dermatology Associates



Dr. Reichenberg is a credentialed physician with the Seton Family of Hospitals.

---