How many days do bedbug bites take to go away? - briefly
«The lesions from Cimex lectularius bites usually resolve within 7 – 14 days, though residual inflammation can linger up to three weeks in sensitive persons.» If symptoms persist beyond this timeframe, professional medical assessment is advised.
How many days do bedbug bites take to go away? - in detail
Bedbug bite recovery follows a predictable timeline, though individual variation exists. The initial inflammatory response appears within minutes to a few hours after the bite, producing a red, raised welt. This stage typically lasts 1‑3 days, during which itching and swelling are most intense.
The secondary phase involves the gradual fading of redness and a reduction in swelling. Most lesions begin to diminish by the third day and continue to improve over the next 4‑7 days. By the end of the first week, the visible mark often becomes faint or disappears entirely, especially if no secondary infection occurs.
A third stage may persist for an additional 1‑2 weeks in sensitive individuals. This period is characterized by lingering hyperpigmentation or a faint, flat spot where the bite occurred. The discoloration fades gradually, but complete resolution can extend up to 14 days.
Factors influencing the duration include:
- Skin type and individual sensitivity
- Presence of allergic reaction or heightened immune response
- Degree of scratching, which can introduce bacterial infection
- Use of topical or oral anti‑inflammatory treatments
Typical healing periods:
- Acute inflammation: 1‑3 days
- Visible reduction of swelling and redness: 4‑7 days
- Residual discoloration: up to 14 days
If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, worsen, or exhibit signs of infection such as pus, increased pain, or fever, medical evaluation is advisable. Prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics or antihistamines can shorten recovery and prevent complications.