How to treat bites from household bedbugs? - briefly
Clean the affected skin with mild soap and water, then apply a topical antihistamine or low‑strength hydrocortisone to alleviate itching and swelling. Seek medical care if the reaction worsens or shows signs of infection.
How to treat bites from household bedbugs? - in detail
Bedbug bites cause redness, swelling, and itching. Prompt care reduces discomfort and prevents secondary infection.
First‑line measures focus on skin relief. Clean each bite with mild soap and lukewarm water, then pat dry. Apply a cold compress for 5–10 minutes to lessen swelling. Over‑the‑counter topical corticosteroids (1 % hydrocortisone) or antihistamine creams (e.g., diphenhydramine) may be rubbed onto the affected area two to three times daily. Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine or diphenhydramine help control itch when taken according to package directions.
If irritation persists beyond 48 hours, consider the following steps:
- Topical antibiotics – a thin layer of bacitracin or mupirocin prevents bacterial colonisation of scratched lesions.
- Prescription steroids – a short course of a stronger corticosteroid cream (e.g., triamcinolone 0.1 %) can be prescribed for severe inflammation.
- Systemic antihistamines – higher‑dose oral antihistamines may be required for extensive pruritus.
Monitor for signs of infection: increasing pain, pus, warmth, or fever. Should any of these develop, seek medical evaluation promptly; systemic antibiotics may be necessary.
Adjunctive actions support recovery and reduce recurrence risk:
- Launder all bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum mattresses, furniture, and floor coverings; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Seal infested items in plastic bags for several weeks to starve remaining insects.
Avoid scratching to prevent skin damage. Keep nails trimmed and consider wearing gloves at night if itching is intense. Persistent or widespread reactions may indicate an allergic response; a physician can assess the need for allergy testing or stronger immunomodulatory therapy.