What will happen if you are bitten by bed bugs? - briefly
Bed bug bites produce small, red, itchy welts that may swell, and in some individuals can trigger allergic reactions or secondary skin infections. Symptoms usually subside within a week, and antihistamines or topical creams can alleviate discomfort.
What will happen if you are bitten by bed bugs? - in detail
Bed‑bug bites typically appear as small, raised spots on exposed skin. The initial reaction is a localized redness that may develop within minutes to a few hours after the bite. In most individuals the inflammation is mild, but the following details are common:
- Size and shape: 2–5 mm papules, often grouped in a linear or clustered pattern reflecting the insect’s feeding habit.
- Color: pink to reddish hue, sometimes surrounded by a paler halo.
- Itching: moderate to intense pruritus that can persist for several days; scratching may aggravate the lesion.
- Swelling: slight edema may accompany the redness, particularly in sensitive skin types.
The majority of people experience only these cutaneous signs, which resolve spontaneously within one to two weeks. However, several complications can arise:
- Allergic response: Some individuals develop a stronger hypersensitivity, resulting in larger wheals, blistering, or prolonged swelling lasting weeks.
- Secondary infection: Persistent scratching can break the skin barrier, allowing bacterial colonisation (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes). Signs include increasing pain, pus, warmth, and spreading erythema; medical evaluation and antibiotics may be required.
- Exacerbation of existing skin conditions: Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may flare in the affected area due to the inflammatory stimulus.
- Psychological impact: Repeated exposure can cause anxiety, insomnia, or a heightened sense of dread about sleeping environments, potentially affecting overall wellbeing.
Diagnosis relies on visual inspection of the characteristic bite pattern and confirmation of an infestation through the presence of live insects, shed skins, or fecal stains in bedding. Laboratory testing is rarely needed unless an allergic or infectious complication is suspected.
Management focuses on symptom relief and eradication of the source:
- Topical corticosteroids reduce inflammation and itching.
- Oral antihistamines provide systemic itch control.
- Antibiotic therapy addresses confirmed bacterial infection.
- Environmental control includes thorough laundering of linens at ≥ 60 °C, vacuuming of mattress seams, and application of approved insecticidal treatments to eliminate the pest.
If bites persist beyond two weeks, worsen, or are accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever, seek professional medical advice promptly.