Michigan Mosquito Bites More Than Itchy? You Could Have Skeeter Syndrome

By this point in the summer, all Michiganders are painfully aware that mosquitoes are everywhere! If you've spent any time outside, you've likely been bitten a few already. Or if you're more like me, a few DOZEN times at this point.

Not only do I get bit far more than the "average" person, I also find that I have a far worse reaction than most. I end up with huge, welt-like bumps that are incredibly itchy.

After reacting like this my whole life, it wasn't until recently that I learned my reaction could be considered skeeter syndrome.

What Is Skeeter Syndrome?

When I first learned about skeeter syndrome, everything finally made sense. The extreme swelling, redness, and itchiness... I've been dealing with this for years, but I finally had a name to explain it.

How to Prevent Mosquito Bites

When it comes to skeeter syndrome, prevention is your best defense. Bug spray helps some, but in my experience it's not enough. Here are some things you can do to prevent getting bit in the first place:

• Avoid going outside when mosquitoes tend to be worse: dawn and dusk.
• Eliminate standing water around your house. Don't forget your kids' water toys!
• Use other methods of insect repellent, like native plants that mosquitoes hate, citronella candles, and mosquito repellent bracelets and patches.

It's not a perfect system, but anything is better than dealing with a dozen terrible mosquito bites at any given time. Besides the fact that they are painful and annoying to deal with, mosquitoes are also known as the "world's deadliest creature", so best to avoid them whenever you can!