How can you treat bed bug bites at home? - briefly
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, then cleanse the area with mild soap and apply an over‑the‑counter antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching; repeat as needed and keep nails trimmed to prevent infection. If irritation persists beyond a few days, seek medical advice.
How can you treat bed bug bites at home? - in detail
Treating bed‑bug bites at home involves three phases: alleviating symptoms, preventing infection, and reducing future exposure.
First, reduce itching and swelling. Apply a cold pack or a cloth soaked in cool water for 10–15 minutes; the temperature drop constricts blood vessels and dulls nerve signals. Follow with a topical corticosteroid cream (1 % hydrocortisone) or calamine lotion, spreading a thin layer over each lesion. For widespread reactions, an oral antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (25‑50 mg) or cetirizine (10 mg) can be taken according to package directions.
Second, keep the area clean. Wash the bites gently with mild soap and lukewarm water, then pat dry. If the skin appears broken, apply an over‑the‑counter antiseptic (e.g., povidone‑iodine) and cover with a sterile non‑adhesive dressing to deter bacterial entry. Change the dressing daily and monitor for signs of infection—redness spreading beyond the bite, increasing pain, pus, or fever.
Third, employ home‑based soothing agents if preferred. A paste of baking soda and water, a few drops of diluted tea tree oil, or a thin layer of aloe vera gel can provide additional comfort. Apply once or twice daily, ensuring no allergic reaction occurs.
Finally, adopt preventive measures to limit new bites. Wash all bedding, clothing, and linens in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum mattresses, box springs, and surrounding furniture, discarding the vacuum bag afterward. Encase mattresses and pillows in zippered covers designed to trap insects. Reduce clutter where bugs can hide, and inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors.
Seek professional medical attention if any bite becomes severely infected, if an allergic reaction causes difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat, or if symptoms persist despite home care.