If you suspect bed bug bites, then you are probably wondering how to treat the bite? In this article, we will talk about the different bed bug bite treatments and the steps you must take.
Did you find bites that look suspiciously like bed bug bites? If so, you must wonder about the steps you need to take. It is important to act fast because bed bug infestations are difficult to eliminate.
Bed bugs are tiny annoying insects that feed on blood. The mini vampires also leave bite marks behind which while they may not be harmful, must be treated immediately to avoid allergies or secondary infection. Here are important steps and treatment options to take care of the bed bug bites.
Be Sure You are Dealing with A Bed Bug
A good number of insects have similar bite marks to bed bugs. Prior to getting into bed bug bites treatment, you should identify the bite marks you are dealing with to take the correct steps. You might be dealing with bed bugs if the bites look like:
- A cluster of red bumps or rows of three to five bite marks
- Bumps appear in a line or zigzag patterns
- Bumps have halos or rings around them
- Bites appear around exposed areas such as the neck, arms, feet, face or even the eyelids
- Bides are itchy and slightly raised with a clear center
To confirm the infestation, look around your home for other signs like:
- Pale yellow empty exoskeletons
- Dark specks around the mattress seams or bed linens
- Reddish or rusty stains or even a crushed bed bug
Bed Bug Bites Treatment
Now, you have identified the infestation, you must treat yourself immediately. Begin by washing the affected areas with soap and a lot of water. Wash repeatedly and you may experience short term relief from itching. Next, you need to pick a treatment option. Here are some bed bug treatments you can use:
Home remedies
You can use these effective home remedies for bed bug bites treatment. The ingredients are probably things you already have at home.
- Baking soda paste: Make a thin paste of baking soda and water. Apply on the rash and allow it to dry before washing off with warm water. Make sure the paste stays on for at least an hour.
- Natural Astringents: Dab the surface of the bed bug bites with witch hazel, or lemon juice. This can ease the itching for a while.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera contains anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. It might come in handy in preventing secondary infection. Make sure you are using 100% pure Aloe Vera without additives
Medications
You can also visit the local drugstore or pharmacy for any of these options:
- Over-the-counter creams: Creams containing cortisone or hydrocortisone can also control the itching and inflammation. You can buy them without a doctor’s prescription. However, if you need a stronger variant, you must get the prescription.
- Calamine lotion: Calamine lotion can also soothe the skin, give relief from itching, dry the rash and protect the surface, so it heals faster
- Oral antihistamine: In cases of rash or swelling, you can buy over-the-counter antihistamine cream to apply over the area. Antihistamine can also control allergic reactions but a doctor must prescribe the proper dose.
- Pain relief: If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, you can also use OTC anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen.
Caution
Without medication, bites might clear up without one to two weeks. However, if you notice signs of a skin infection, such as oozing discharge or tenderness, then you must visit your health provider. Look out for signs like hives, swollen skin or reddened spots, it might mean that there is an allergic reaction and you must contact your physician.
Self-care
Apart from treating the bed bug bites you want to prevent future bites. You can begin by vacuuming, laundering, and cleaning your home. However, you must call the professional exterminators to get rid of bed bugs from your home. Contacting professionals is the most effective way to get rid of bed bugs from your home and fast.
