The bite of a bed bug is not only irritating and uncomfortable, and can also be a source of anxiety and stress. Bedbugs are small, blood-sucking insects that can infest your home and your belongings, and they can be very difficult to get rid of. While preventing a bedbug infestation is the best way to avoid these pesky bites, it’s not always possible to control them entirely.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the United States estimates that 20 million Americans experience bedbug infestations each year. According to a National Pest Management Association (NPMA) survey, bedbugs were treated by 95% of pest control businesses in the previous year. In addition, one in five people has either experienced a bedbug infestation in their home or knows someone who has.
If you’ve ever had the unfortunate experience of being bitten by bedbugs, you know how uncomfortable and irritating it can be. Thankfully, there are ways to treat bedbug bites quickly and effectively, so you can get back to your normal life. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the best techniques to deal with the bite of a bed bug and minimize its impact. From natural remedies to medical treatments, you’ll learn how to quickly and effectively treat bedbug bites.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of A Bedbug Bite
Bed bug bites are typically itchy, red welts on the skin. These welts may be raised and swollen and can be accompanied by tiny red spots on the skin from the bites. The bites may also be accompanied by dark spots on the skin, which are the fecal matter of the bed bugs. The affected area may also have an unpleasant, musty odor. The bites can cause itching and inflammation around the bite area.
The following are signs of bed bug bites:
- Itchiness.
- Rough skin that looks like a pimple or rash (inflammation).
- Burning feeling
- Mild discomfort and soreness.
You won’t feel a bed bug bite while you’re sleeping, just like you probably don’t feel a spider bite. Another defense mechanism used by bed bugs is to stop you from feeling like you’ve been bitten. They numb your skin by biting, and they stop bleeding by injecting an anticoagulant and an anesthetic into your skin. You might not be aware that you’ve been bitten until the bite marks appear, which could take one to two days after the bites.
Bed bug bites can occasionally result in significant reactions. The following symptoms of a severe, potentially rare fatal reaction to bed bug bites are present:
- Trouble breathing
- Enlarged tongue.
- Blisters.
- Fever.
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Feeling terribly ill
How To Treat A Bed Bug Bite
Dealing with bedbug bites can be a nightmare for anyone. Here are some quick and effective ways to treat a bed bug bite.
- Wash the affected area with soap and water
Washing the affected area with soap and water will help to reduce the itching and the risk of infection. Use cool water and mild soap, and also avoid scrubbing the area too hard.
- Apply a cold compress
A cold press will reduce the swelling and itching caused by bedbug bites. You can use a cold, damp cloth wrapped in a towel. Apply the compress for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Take an antihistamine
If you are experiencing severe itching or swelling, you can take an antihistamine. Antihistamines are drugs that can help reduce the allergic reaction caused by bedbug bites. You should confirm with your physician before using this prescription.
- Keep the affected area clean and dry
To prevent infection and promote healing, it is important to keep the affected area clean and dry. Avoid scratching the bites, as this can lead to infection. If the bites are oozing or crusting, cover them with a bandage.
- Use a topical anti-itch cream.
Anti-itch creams, such as calamine lotion, can help to reduce itchiness and discomfort from bedbug bites. Apply a small amount of the cream to the affected area and rub it in gently.
Top Anti-itch Topical Products For A Budbug Bite
- Calamine Lotion: Calamine lotion is a popular anti-itch product that can be used to treat bedbug bites. It contains a combination of zinc oxide and iron oxide, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.
- Hydrocortisone Cream: Hydrocortisone cream is a topical steroid that can be used to reduce itching and inflammation. It works by suppressing the immune response and reducing the release of chemicals that cause itching and inflammation.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for treating bedbug bites. It can be applied directly to the bite or diluted with carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and cooling properties, which can help alleviate itching and inflammation. It can be applied directly to the bite or mixed with other anti-itch ingredients, such as tea tree oil or witch hazel.
- Witch Hazel: Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help reduce itching and inflammation. It can be applied directly to the bite or mixed with other anti-itch ingredients, such as aloe vera gel or tea tree oil.
Home Remedies / Prevention Tips for Avoiding Infestation and Bites
Prevention is the best strategy for dealing with bedbugs. Here are some effective ways to prevent bedbug bites:
- Vacuum and clean your home
To prevent further infestations, it is important to always vacuum and cleans your home thoroughly. Bedbugs can hide in cracks and crevices, so pay special attention to these areas.
- Call a professional pest control company
If you have a severe bedbug infestation, it may be necessary to call a professional pest control company. These companies have the expertise and equipment to get rid of bedbugs quickly and effectively. They can use heat treatments, pesticides, or other methods to eradicate the infestation.
- Check for bedbugs when traveling
If you are traveling, be sure to check your hotel room for signs of bedbugs, such as blood spots on the sheets or mattress, before unpacking. Consider using a bedbug-proof encasement on your mattress and box spring to prevent bedbugs from entering.
- Keep your home clean and clutter-free
Bedbugs are attracted to clutter and mess, so keeping your home clean and clutter-free can help to prevent infestations. Vacuum regularly, and wash your bedding and linens in hot water once a week.
- Seal cracks and crevices
Bedbugs can enter your home through small cracks and crevices, so it is essential to seal any openings in your walls or floors. Use caulk or foam to fill in gaps, and repair any loose wallpaper or peeling paint.
- Inspect second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home
Bedbugs could hide in second-hand furniture from the formal owner, so it’s important to inspect it carefully before bringing it into your home.
- Wash your bedding regularly:
Washing your bedding in hot water can help to kill any bedbugs that may be lurking in your sheets or blankets.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most bed bug bites will heal on their own within a week or two, some bites can cause complications. Here are some situations when you should seek medical attention:
- Allergic Reaction: If you experience a severe allergic reaction to bed bug bites, you may need immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a rapid heartbeat.
- Infection: If you scratch the bed bug bites surface, you may break the skin and introduce bacteria. This can lead to an infection, which may require medical treatment.
- Chronic Itching: If you have a bite of a bed bug that continues to itch for more than two weeks, you may have a condition called prurigo nodularis. This condition can cause nodules to form on the skin, which may require medical treatment.
- Psychological Effects: Bed bug infestations can be traumatic, and some people may develop anxiety, depression, or other psychological symptoms as a result. If you are experiencing psychological distress due to a bed bug infestation, you may want to seek professional help.
Places To Check For Possible Bedbug Spot In Your Home
Bedbugs are attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide so they mostly live where people are or where they sleep in. There are certain places to check if you suspect any bedbugs in your home. Look for signs of them in these places which they hide during the day;
- Mattresses
- Bed frames
- Bedsprings
- Pillows
- Household crevices or cracks
- Wardrobe
- Luggage
- Loose or peeling walls
- Sofas
- Under the dining table and chair
- Electrical switch plate
Conclusion
Dealing with bedbug bites can be a painful and frustrating experience, but there are several things you can do to relieve the symptoms and prevent further infestation. Apply a cold compress, use over-the-counter creams and ointments, take an antihistamine, vacuum and clean your home, and call a professional pest control company if necessary.
Some of the possible places could encounter a bedbug and take it home include hospitals, dormitories, hotels, a business office, and from a friend or relative who comes visiting or the one you visited, etc. With these tips, you can deal with bedbug bites quickly and effectively.