What do bedbugs look like and how to treat their bites? - briefly
Bedbugs are tiny, oval, reddish‑brown insects about 4–5 mm in length, with a flat back, visible antennae, and six legs. Treat their bites by washing the area with mild soap, applying a topical antihistamine or corticosteroid to alleviate itching, and watching for signs of infection.
What do bedbugs look like and how to treat their bites? - in detail
Bedbugs are small, flat insects about 4–5 mm long when unfed and up to 7 mm after a blood meal. Their bodies are oval and lack wings, giving a pancake‑like appearance. Color varies from reddish‑brown after feeding to lighter brown when empty. Antennae consist of five segments, and each side bears three tiny hairs near the front. Legs are thin, allowing rapid movement across fabrics. Adults, nymphs, and eggs share the same flattened shape, making detection on mattresses, box springs, and seams difficult.
Bite reactions typically appear as small, red, raised spots. Individual lesions may be isolated or grouped in a line or cluster, reflecting the insect’s feeding pattern. Itching ranges from mild to intense; secondary infection can develop if the area is scratched. Symptoms usually emerge within hours to a few days after the bite.
Effective management of bedbug bites includes:
- Clean the affected skin with mild soap and lukewarm water to remove irritants.
- Apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling.
- Use over‑the‑counter antihistamine tablets or creams containing diphenhydramine to alleviate itching.
- Apply a topical corticosteroid ointment, such as hydrocortisone 1 %, to diminish inflammation.
- Keep the area uncovered and dry; replace bandages only if necessary to prevent moisture buildup.
- Monitor for signs of infection—increasing redness, pus, or fever—and seek medical attention if they occur.
Preventive actions focus on eliminating the source. Remove and launder all bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum mattresses, box springs, and surrounding furniture, discarding the vacuum bag immediately. Encase mattresses and pillows in zippered, bedbug‑proof covers. Inspect second‑hand furniture before introduction into living spaces. Professional pest‑control treatments, such as heat‑based extermination or approved insecticides, provide comprehensive eradication when infestations are extensive.