A bedbug bit: how to treat the bite? - briefly
Clean the affected skin with mild soap, apply a cold compress, and use an over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream or oral antihistamine to ease itching and swelling. If redness expands, pain intensifies, or signs of infection develop, obtain medical evaluation.
A bedbug bit: how to treat the bite? - in detail
Bed bug bites typically appear as small, red, raised welts that may develop a central punctum. The reaction varies with individual sensitivity; some people experience only mild itching, while others develop pronounced swelling, blistering, or secondary infection.
Immediate care focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing infection. Clean the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water, then apply an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine. After drying, a topical corticosteroid (hydrocortisone 1 % or a stronger prescription formula) can alleviate itching and edema. For severe pruritus, oral antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine) provide systemic relief.
If the bite becomes inflamed or shows signs of infection—pus, increasing warmth, or expanding redness—consult a healthcare professional. Antibiotic therapy may be required, typically a course of oral doxycycline or a macrolide, depending on bacterial susceptibility.
Adjunct measures support recovery and limit further exposure:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum mattresses, upholstered furniture, and floor surfaces; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Encase mattress and box spring in certified encasements to trap any remaining insects.
- Apply a residual insecticide labeled for bed bugs to cracks, crevices, and baseboards, following manufacturer instructions.
Persistent lesions that last beyond two weeks, or systemic symptoms such as fever, warrant medical evaluation. Documentation of bite patterns and timing assists clinicians in distinguishing bed bug reactions from other arthropod bites or dermatologic conditions.