It’s apparently mosquito season and I am allergic to the bites.

I apparently was swarmed while biking this weekend, despite the layer of OFF on my skin.

For some reason, I have over 20 bites on my back.

The suffering really started Sunday, when they swelled and left me practically paralyzed. Aside from the swelling, there was a lot of itching and I even had some breathing problems.

I took to the internet to find a remedy – and the results have been somewhat comical.

Here’s a look.

1. Rub a bar of soap over the itch. Tried it – only temporary itching relief
2. Place a piece of scotch tape on the bite. Tried it – only temporary itching relief and hard to get the tape on/off my back alone!
3. Hot water: Take a hot shower, or a hot bath, or apply a hot compress. As hot as you can stand it without burning you. Did this – it was awesome. But I’m not a mermaid and can’t stay in the water all day. The moment I got out, it started again!
4. Ice cube, ice pack or very cold water. Tried this – I found it too uncomfortable
5. Nail Polish. Tried it – it was too weird.
6. Toothpaste. Actually worked for a short time.
7. Mouthwash. Actually worked for a short time.
8. Vinegar (apply directly to bite or take a hot bath with 2 cups of vinegar in the water). Provided some temporary relief- really smelly.
9. Honey. Hate honey – wouldn’t ever try. Plus it’s just so sticky!
10. Underarm deodorant (solid or roll-on) – apply directly to bite area. Tried it – provided some temporary relief – but too hard to reach my back!
11. Rubbing Alcohol. Provided some temporary relief.
12. Ammonia. Provided some temporary relief- really smelly.
13. Bleach. Provided some temporary relief- really smelly.
14. Baking Soda & Water. Provided some temporary relief.
15. Salt & Water. Provided some temporary relief.
16. Tums Tablets: crush and add a few drops of water. Provided some temporary relief.
17. Aspirin: crush then add a few drops of water. Provided some temporary relief.
18. Calamine Lotion. Provided some temporary relief.
19. Benadryl Cream. Provided some temporary relief.
20. Orajel. Provided some temporary relief.
21. Vicks VapoRub. Provided some temporary relief.
22. After Bite. Provided some temporary relief.

After a day of suffering – I finally took some strong medication, went to bed at 8 p.m. and awoke at 2 a.m. with more itching.

Now, I’m suffering through the day – anyone else have any more things I can try?