How to treat if bitten by bed bugs? - briefly
Clean the affected skin with mild soap and water, then apply a topical corticosteroid or oral antihistamine to reduce itching and inflammation, avoiding scratching to prevent secondary infection. Simultaneously launder all bedding in hot water and vacuum the sleeping area to eliminate remaining insects.
How to treat if bitten by bed bugs? - in detail
When a person discovers marks from Cimex lectularius, the first priority is to calm the skin and prevent secondary infection. Wash the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water, then pat dry. Apply a cold compress for 5–10 minutes to reduce swelling and numb the itch.
For symptomatic relief, use one or more of the following options:
- Topical corticosteroid ointments (e.g., 1 % hydrocortisone) applied two to three times daily.
- Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine 10 mg or diphenhydramine 25–50 mg, taken according to label instructions.
- Calamine lotion or zinc‑oxide paste to soothe itching between applications of stronger medication.
If the bite becomes inflamed, shows pus, or the surrounding skin turns red and warm, treat it as a possible bacterial infection. Clean the site with an antiseptic solution, cover with a sterile dressing, and seek medical evaluation. A physician may prescribe topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin) or a short course of oral antibiotics if systemic infection is suspected.
Allergic reactions can progress rapidly. Watch for hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, or a drop in blood pressure. These signs demand immediate emergency care; administer an epinephrine auto‑injector if prescribed and call emergency services without delay.
After the acute phase, keep the skin moisturized with fragrance‑free creams to aid barrier repair and reduce lingering irritation. Avoid scratching, which can introduce pathogens and exacerbate inflammation. Monitor the lesions for at least 48 hours; most bites resolve within a week, leaving only temporary hyperpigmentation.
Long‑term prevention of further exposure supports recovery. Wash all bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal mattresses and box springs in encasements designed to trap insects. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and cracks in walls, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister. Professional pest‑management treatment may be required for infestations that persist despite these measures.