How to soothe a bedbug bite? - briefly
Apply a cold compress to the affected area, then use a hydrocortisone or calamine lotion to relieve itching. If discomfort continues, take an oral antihistamine and keep the site clean to avoid secondary infection.
How to soothe a bedbug bite? - in detail
When a bedbug bite causes itching, swelling, or redness, prompt care can reduce discomfort and prevent secondary infection.
First, cleanse the area with mild soap and lukewarm water. This removes irritants and lowers the risk of bacterial entry. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel; rubbing may aggravate the reaction.
Apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes, repeating every hour for the initial 4–6 hours. The cold reduces vasodilation, limiting swelling and numbness of the nerve endings that trigger itch.
Topical agents that counteract histamine release and soothe inflammation include:
- 1 % hydrocortisone cream, applied thinly two to three times daily for up to 7 days.
- Calamine lotion, spread lightly every few hours for its cooling effect.
- 0.5 % pramoxine or 1 % lidocaine gel, providing temporary numbing relief.
Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine 10 mg or diphenhydramine 25 mg can be taken once daily to diminish systemic itching. For patients with severe reactions, a short course of oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone 20 mg daily for 3 days) may be prescribed by a physician.
If the bite becomes increasingly painful, shows pus, or the surrounding skin turns warm and red, seek medical evaluation. These signs indicate possible infection requiring antibiotics.
Avoid scratching, as mechanical trauma can break the skin barrier and introduce pathogens. Keep fingernails trimmed and consider wearing cotton gloves at night if unconscious scratching is a problem.
Long‑term management involves eliminating the source of the infestation. Professional pest control, thorough laundering of bedding at 60 °C, and vacuuming of mattresses and furniture are essential steps.
By combining immediate cleansing, cold therapy, appropriate topical or oral medications, and diligent hygiene, the irritation from a bedbug bite can be efficiently alleviated.