What should you do if bitten by bedbugs? - briefly
Wash the affected skin with mild soap, then apply a topical antihistamine or corticosteroid cream to relieve itching. Seek medical attention if the reaction worsens, spreads, or is accompanied by fever.
What should you do if bitten by bedbugs? - in detail
If a bed‑bug bite is discovered, immediate actions reduce discomfort and limit the risk of secondary infection. First, cleanse the affected skin with mild soap and lukewarm water; this removes potential contaminants and eases itching. After drying, apply a cold compress for several minutes to constrict blood vessels and lessen swelling.
Next, treat the reaction with topical agents. Over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone cream (1 %) or calamine lotion can mitigate inflammation. Antihistamine tablets or liquid formulations (e.g., diphenhydramine) help control widespread itching, especially when multiple bites are present. If the skin shows signs of infection—redness expanding beyond the bite, pus, or fever—consult a healthcare professional promptly for possible antibiotics.
Parallel to symptom management, address the source of the infestation. Inspect bedding, mattress seams, and surrounding furniture for live insects, shed skins, or dark‑colored fecal spots. Use a flashlight to examine crevices and seams. When evidence is found, isolate the mattress by encasing it in a zippered cover designed to trap bed‑bugs for at least a year. Launder all bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat; heat kills both bugs and eggs.
For items that cannot be laundered, place them in sealed plastic bags and expose them to a portable heat chamber or a professional pest‑control service that employs steam treatment. Vacuum the entire sleeping area, focusing on seams, headboards, and baseboards; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container immediately after use.
Finally, consider professional extermination if the infestation persists. Certified pest‑control operators employ integrated approaches—chemical sprays, diatomaceous earth, and heat‑treatment units—to eradicate hidden colonies. Follow the provider’s post‑treatment guidelines, which typically include repeated vacuuming, laundering, and regular inspections for several weeks.
By combining prompt wound care, thorough sanitation, and targeted eradication methods, the adverse effects of bed‑bug bites can be minimized and the likelihood of re‑infestation substantially reduced.