What are bedbug bites? - briefly
Bedbug bites are small, red, itchy welts resulting from the saliva injected by Cimex lectularius during a blood meal. They often occur in clusters on exposed areas of skin and may develop a raised, inflamed center.
What are bedbug bites? - in detail
Bed bug bites are small, red welts caused by the saliva of Cimex species when they feed on human blood. The insects inject anticoagulant proteins that provoke a localized inflammatory response, producing a characteristic skin reaction.
Typical features include:
- Size: 2–5 mm in diameter, sometimes swelling to 10 mm.
- Color: pink to deep red, may develop a darker central spot.
- Shape: often round or oval; multiple bites may form a linear or clustered pattern.
- Itching: moderate to intense pruritus, appearing within minutes to several hours after the feed.
- Delayed reaction: in some individuals, lesions emerge 24–48 hours later.
The distribution on the body reflects the insect’s feeding habits. Bites commonly appear on exposed areas such as the face, neck, arms, and hands, but can also be found on concealed skin when the host rolls over during sleep.
Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation and history of exposure. Key points for identification:
- Presence of the three‑night‑rule: bites often appear in groups of three or more, aligned in a row.
- Absence of burrows or tunnels in the skin, distinguishing them from other arthropod bites.
- Detection of live insects, shed skins, or dark fecal spots near sleeping areas.
Management focuses on symptom relief and preventing secondary infection:
- Topical corticosteroids or oral antihistamines to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Calamine lotion or cool compresses for immediate soothing.
- Antiseptic cleaning if lesions become excoriated.
Elimination of the infestation is essential. Effective measures include:
- Thorough vacuuming of mattresses, box springs, and surrounding furniture.
- Laundering bedding at ≥ 60 °C and drying on high heat.
- Encasement of mattresses and pillows with zippered covers.
- Application of approved insecticide sprays or professional heat treatment (≥ 50 °C for several hours).
Monitoring after treatment is necessary; new bites indicate persistent infestation and require repeated interventions.