Bed Bug Bites

Every person has a different reaction to bed bug bites. The saliva of bed bugs that is injected when biting is the reason why the bite marks differ in color, shape, and size. While some don’t get a reaction from the bites, others may suffer from severe allergic reactions such as welts, blisters and sometimes, permanent scarring. The most common reactions are itchiness, inflammation, and irritation.

Bed bugs will bite on exposed areas of the body while you are sleeping, such as the following:

  • Face
  • Neck
  • Shoulders
  • Arms
  • Hands
  • Legs

Unlike other insect bites, bed bug bites usually form a pattern. You will see the pattern look like three dots and it can either be in a row or a zigzag pattern. This is why many people find a group of bites in one particular area. Since bed bugs are lazy, they tend to feed on whatever part of the body is resting on the pillow or mattress.

Other Symptoms That May Develop Due to Bed Bug Bites

Though there are people who immediately see and feel the symptoms, there are also those who develop symptoms a couple of days after getting bitten. Without further scratching, irritations can be prevented and symptoms will be gone within a week.

A person is susceptible to developing an infection if the bite marks are not treated or if the person continues to scratch the area. There are some who develop serious reactions such as an irregular heartbeat, a swollen tongue, difficulty breathing, and a fever that will require a physician’s attention.

Without the proper identification and treatment of bed bugs, one may suffer from health complications due to sleep deprivation and decreased well-being. With these health complications, it is necessary that continuous and proper bed bug treatment is provided.

 

Treatments for Bed Bug Bites

There are several quick-relief solutions for bed bug bites that you can do at home. You can use apple cider vinegar or toothpaste over the affected area. If you have free time or live near a local pharmacy, a hydrocortisone cream will help reduce itchiness and prevent scarring. Simply apply a thin layer over the affected area and reapply 2-3 times daily to relieve discomfort.

If you ever have a serious case of itching you can ask for an antihistamine, such as Benadryl, from your pharmacist. This can reduce the reaction from the bites. In the case that none of these solutions work after a couple of days, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor to get a suitable medication. Others may be prescribed with an injectable corticosteroid o epinephrine medication, while some who develop an infection may be prescribed with antibiotics.

A way to put an end to bed bug bites is through proper identification and a complete extermination. Now, one extermination process may not be enough so it is highly recommended that you continuously detect and monitor these pests until they are completely gone.

If unsure, bed bug monitors and traps are a low-cost solution