What should be applied to bedbug bites on a person? - briefly
Apply a topical corticosteroid or antihistamine cream to lessen itching and inflammation, and use a cold compress for immediate soothing. Keep the area clean and avoid scratching to prevent secondary infection.
What should be applied to bedbug bites on a person? - in detail
When a person is bitten by bedbugs, the primary goal is to reduce itching, prevent infection, and promote healing. Effective topical measures include:
- Antihistamine creams or gels (e.g., diphenhydramine, cetirizine) applied to the affected area to block histamine release and lessen pruritus.
- Corticosteroid ointments (e.g., 1% hydrocortisone) for moderate inflammation; stronger prescription steroids may be required for severe reactions.
- Calamine lotion or zinc oxide paste to soothe skin and create a protective barrier.
- Cold compresses (a cloth soaked in cold water or an ice pack wrapped in a towel) for 10‑15 minutes, repeated several times a day, to numb the site and diminish swelling.
If secondary infection is suspected—characterized by increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever—apply a topical antibiotic (e.g., bacitracin or mupirocin) and seek medical evaluation for possible oral antibiotics.
Systemic options for extensive reactions include:
- Oral antihistamines (e.g., loratadine, fexofenadine) to control widespread itching.
- Oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) for severe inflammatory responses, prescribed by a healthcare professional.
General care principles:
- Clean the bite with mild soap and water immediately after discovery to remove irritants.
- Avoid scratching to prevent skin damage and bacterial entry.
- Keep nails trimmed and consider wearing gloves at night if scratching is compulsive.
- Monitor for allergic signs such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of lips and face; seek emergency care if they appear.
In all cases, maintaining a clean environment, washing bedding at high temperatures, and employing integrated pest management are essential to prevent further bites and reduce the need for repeated treatments.