Sorry I meant to come back and update this thread after my doctors visit.
She repeated the advice to avoid being bitten on that arm - and then we laughed about the idea that anyone actively tries to get bitten. While repellent is not much help with ants, bees, wasps and spiders (my main problems) it does help with mosquitoes, sand flies etc.
She was pleased that I now had multiple packs of anti histamine readily available and we added phenergan to take in the evening when necessary. I also have prednisone 25mg to take in the day time as a single dose if I am bitten on my arm. Obviously anyone with similar condition should see their own doctor for appropriate medications.
The bite treatment I used of rest, ice, compression sleeve and elevation (RICE) is the appropriate treatment.
Hopefully now that I am fully informed and prepared I will never again be bitten on that arm.