What should be done about bedbug bites?

What should be done about bedbug bites? - briefly

Wash the bites with soap and water, then apply a topical antihistamine or corticosteroid to reduce itching and inflammation. If redness spreads, lesions become painful, or systemic symptoms appear, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

What should be done about bedbug bites? - in detail

Bedbug bites typically appear as small, red, itchy welts that may develop a halo of swelling. Reactions vary from mild irritation to pronounced inflammation, and secondary infection can arise if lesions are scratched excessively.

Immediate care includes the following steps:

  • Clean the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water to remove contaminants.
  • Apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling and relieve itching.
  • Use over‑the‑counter antihistamine tablets or oral antihistamine syrup to alleviate pruritus, adhering to the dosage instructions on the package.

Topical treatments that can be employed after cleaning:

  • Hydrocortisone cream 1 % applied two to three times daily for up to a week to diminish inflammation.
  • Calamine lotion or zinc‑oxide ointment to soothe the skin and provide a protective barrier.

If lesions become increasingly painful, exudate appears, or fever develops, medical evaluation is warranted. Prescription‑strength corticosteroid creams or oral antibiotics may be required to manage severe inflammation or bacterial infection.

Preventing additional bites involves eliminating the source of infestation:

  • Conduct a thorough inspection of bedding, mattress seams, and furniture for live insects, shed skins, or dark‑colored spots.
  • Wash all linens, clothing, and removable fabric items in water ≥ 60 °C, followed by drying on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
  • Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bedbug‑proof covers, sealing all seams.
  • Vacuum carpets, floor cracks, and upholstered furniture daily; immediately discard vacuum bags in a sealed container.
  • Engage a licensed pest‑control professional for integrated pest management, which may include heat treatment, steam application, or approved insecticide protocols.

Long‑term monitoring should include regular visual checks of sleeping areas, documentation of any new bite occurrences, and prompt re‑treatment if resurgence is suspected. Individuals with known hypersensitivity may require consultation with an allergist to assess the need for desensitization therapy or specialized medication.