How do you treat bed bug bites at home? - briefly
Wash the affected area with mild soap and cool water, then apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Follow with an over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone cream or oral antihistamine to control itching and inflammation.
How do you treat bed bug bites at home? - in detail
Bed bug bites typically appear as red, itchy welts that may develop into small swellings. Prompt care reduces discomfort and lowers the risk of secondary infection.
Initial care
- Gently wash the affected area with lukewarm water and mild soap.
- Pat dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing, which can aggravate the skin.
- Apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes to diminish swelling and numb itching.
Anti‑itch strategies
- Over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone cream (1 %) can be applied twice daily for up to a week.
- Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine or diphenhydramine help control widespread itching; follow the label dosage.
- Calamine lotion or a thin layer of aloe‑vera gel provides a soothing barrier and reduces redness.
Infection prevention
- Keep fingernails trimmed to discourage scratching.
- If a lesion becomes painful, warm, or drains pus, clean it with antiseptic solution and cover with a sterile bandage.
- Seek professional medical evaluation if signs of infection (increased warmth, swelling, fever) appear.
Home‑based remedies
- A paste of baking soda and water applied for 15 minutes can absorb moisture and lessen irritation.
- Diluted tea tree oil (1 % concentration) applied sparingly may offer mild antiseptic benefit; avoid undiluted essential oils on broken skin.
- Oatmeal baths (½ cup colloidal oatmeal in lukewarm water) soothe extensive itching.
Long‑term management
- Launder all bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat; heat kills both insects and their eggs.
- Vacuum carpets, mattresses, and furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered covers designed to trap insects; leave in place for at least 12 months.
Effective home treatment combines proper skin care, symptom‑relieving agents, and rigorous cleaning to control the reaction and limit further exposure. If symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen, professional medical assessment is warranted.