How should a bed‑bug allergy be treated? - briefly
Antihistamines alleviate itching, while oral corticosteroids address severe systemic symptoms; topical corticosteroid creams can be applied to localized reactions. Eliminate the infestation with professional pest control and launder all bedding and clothing in hot water to prevent recurrence.
How should a bed‑bug allergy be treated? - in detail
Bed‑bug bites can trigger a spectrum of hypersensitivity reactions, from localized erythema to systemic urticaria and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Effective management requires prompt symptom control and prevention of future exposure.
Initial care focuses on skin cleansing and symptom relief. Gentle washing with mild soap removes potential irritants. Topical corticosteroids applied two to three times daily reduce inflammation and pruritus. Antihistamine creams or gels provide additional itch suppression.
Systemic pharmacotherapy addresses more extensive reactions. Oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg once daily or loratadine 10 mg once daily) alleviate wheal‑and‑flare responses. For persistent or severe urticaria, a short course of oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone 0.5 mg/kg/day for 5‑7 days) is appropriate. In cases of anaphylactic presentation, immediate intramuscular epinephrine (0.3 mg of 1 mg/mL solution for adults) is mandatory, followed by observation and possible referral to emergency care.
Long‑term strategies aim to eliminate the source of exposure and reduce sensitization risk. Integrated pest‑management protocols include:
- Professional inspection and sealing of cracks, crevices, and seams in furniture.
- Heat treatment of infested items (temperature ≥ 50 °C for 30 minutes) or cold treatment (freezing at − 20 °C for 48 hours).
- Regular vacuuming of mattresses, box springs, and surrounding areas.
- Use of encasements certified for bed‑bug exclusion on mattresses and pillows.
- Monitoring with interceptor traps placed under bed legs.
Patients with documented severe reactions may benefit from referral to an allergist for possible desensitization protocols, although evidence remains limited.
Follow‑up evaluation should occur within one to two weeks to assess symptom resolution, medication tolerance, and effectiveness of environmental control measures. Documentation of reaction severity guides future therapeutic decisions and emergency preparedness.