
Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch?
The mosquito is undeniably one of the most successful predators on the planet, and it doesn't even consume our blood for sustenance. The female mosquito needs blood for the DNA within our cells to help develop her eggs, and she's evolved some nifty tools to help her surreptitiously tap into the human blood bank. When she bites, her saliva contains anesthetic and anticoagulant compounds, which allow her to find a suitable vein without you even realizing it. This is why you only notice the bite after the fact – usually while she's long gone, her mischief already done. But the reaction to this saliva varies greatly from person to person. The typical mosquito bite causes an immune response that includes some inflammation, itching, and a tiny bump that usually resolves within a few days. However, about 3% of people have allergic reactions that are much more severe, manifesting in symptoms such as a larger red area, swelling, and even blisters. For the unlucky 0.01 to 0.1%, the reaction can be systemic, sometimes leading to anaphylaxis.Are You Allergic to Mosquitoes?
If you suspect that you or someone in your household may be allergic to mosquito bites, it's important to recognize the warning signs. An allergic reaction can display a range of symptoms, including but not limited to:- A significantly larger bump than the size of a normal mosquito bite
- Redness that goes beyond the area immediately bitten
- Swelling, sometimes substantial, involving the affected area
- Hives or a rash that spreads across the body
- Difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, or throat swelling
- Dizziness or a drop in blood pressure

Professional Mosquito Control Services in Waterloo
In a region like Waterloo, where the warm weather beckons residents outdoors, finding effective ways to control mosquitoes is paramount. DIY solutions can often be more hassle than effective, and they don’t always address the problem at the source. That's where professional mosquito control services can make all the difference. Professional pest control companies like Truly Nolen offer comprehensive strategies that don't just manage the mosquito population but can also help identify if your local mosquito population carries diseases. Our services encompass:- Habitat modification: Assessing your property for potential breeding sites and recommending any necessary modifications to reduce the likelihood of mosquito reproduction.
- Larviciding: Applying treatments to water sources that larvae would develop in, ensuring their control before they can emerge as biting adults.
- Adulticiding: Managing the adult mosquito population through localized treatments and fogging, particularly in high-risk areas.
- Ongoing monitoring: Continual assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of the chosen strategies and make adjustments as needed.