How long does an allergic reaction to bedbugs last? - briefly
An allergic response to bed‑bug bites typically resolves within a few days, but severe reactions can persist for up to two weeks or longer. Persistent itching or swelling beyond this period warrants medical evaluation.
How long does an allergic reaction to bedbugs last? - in detail
Bed‑bug bites trigger an immune response that varies widely among individuals. The reaction typically begins within minutes to a few hours after the bite, presenting as a red, itchy papule. In most cases, the acute phase resolves within 24–48 hours, although swelling and itching may persist for up to five days.
After the initial flare, a sub‑acute stage can last from three to seven days. During this period, the lesion may remain raised, the skin may become flaky, and scratching can lead to secondary bacterial infection. If infection occurs, healing may extend to two weeks, and the area can develop crusting or drainage.
A minority of people develop a hypersensitivity that endures for weeks or months. This chronic form often appears as recurrent papular urticaria, with new lesions forming after each exposure. Persistent inflammation can cause post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation that fades slowly over several months.
Factors that influence the length of the response include:
- Individual sensitivity and previous exposure to bed‑bug allergens.
- Number of bites received in a single encounter.
- Promptness and type of treatment applied.
- Presence of secondary infection or underlying skin conditions.
- General health and immune status of the person.
Therapeutic measures that usually shorten the duration are:
- Oral antihistamines taken at the first sign of itching.
- Topical corticosteroids applied to reduce inflammation.
- Cold compresses to alleviate swelling and discomfort.
- Keeping the area clean and avoiding scratching to prevent infection.
- Over‑the‑counter analgesics for pain, if needed.
Medical evaluation is warranted when symptoms last longer than two weeks, when lesions spread rapidly, when fever, lymphadenopathy, or severe pain develop, or when the skin shows signs of infection such as pus or increasing redness. In such cases, prescription‑strength medications or antibiotics may be required to resolve the reaction fully.