Treatment After Being Bitten by Midges
Disease description:
My younger brother is 16 years old this year. Recently, he developed numerous itchy, pimple-like bumps on his body—apparently from bites. Our family doctor diagnosed them as bites from “wheat mosquitoes” (likely referring to chiggers or harvest mites). I would like to know the appropriate treatment for such bites.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Please avoid gua sha (scraping therapy), as it significantly increases the risk of infection. Gua sha stimulates the exudation of tissue fluid and lymph from the skin, causing not only localized redness and swelling but also progressively worsening pruritus (itching). In individuals with allergic skin, gua sha may exacerbate symptoms—potentially leading to pronounced, intense swelling and erythema. Following mosquito or insect bites accompanied by itching, temporary relief can be achieved by applying saline solution or an ice pack to the affected area; alternatively, topical application of cooling, antipruritic agents—such as mentholated oil, insect bite ointment, or compound washes—is recommended. Huālù (a common Chinese insect-repellent and soothing lotion) is primarily alcohol-based and thus suitable only for localized application; widespread use may cause discomfort, and application to areas with minor skin abrasions may result in stinging pain.
