Bedbug Bite Remedies

Bed bug bites—itchy, red welts often in straight lines—are rarely dangerous, but may cause sufferers to lose sleep and experience much discomfort. Luckily, there are ways to treat bites and to prevent infestation.

Bed Bugs Description

• Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are small, brown parasitic insects. The bugs feed solely on the blood of animals, and their primary prey is humans. The bugs hide in mattresses, box springs, sheets, pillows, bed frames, carpet, blankets and furniture like sofas and chairs. The bug's flattened bodies make crevices ideal living spaces, where they hide during the day. The bugs are more active at night.

  Bed bugs have been living with people since ancient times; however, they were all but eradicated in the 1940s with the advent of DDT and more hygienic living conditions. A recent resurgence of the pest has been attributed to increased global travel; the bugs transfer from developing nations where they are more common to industrial nations. Additionally, bed bugs may hide in used beds or furniture.

  Bed bugs feed by piercing human skin and sucking out blood. The bugs will feed on any exposed skin. Unlike lice, which remain on the human body after feeding, bed bugs crawl away after they reach engorgement. Most people do not feel the bugs bite them in their sleep.

  The severity of bites and their symptoms vary. Some people notice red welts, itching and swelling in the area within in a day of the bite. Some people have no reaction and others experience a delayed reaction. Often the bites are passed off as mosquito bites. If this is the case, bed bug infestations can become quite large before detection.

Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite

• The easiest way to prevent a bed bug infestation is to maintain hygienic living conditions. Change bedsheets frequently and wash them in hot water. Spot clean mattresses and vacuum the area around the bed on a regular basis.

  However, bed bugs can be found in the cleanest of homes and the nicest of hotels. Unlike roaches, bed bugs do not thrive in filth.

  Once an infestation has occurred, it is paramount that all bedding, bed frames, carpet and furniture in the residence are adequately cleaned to prevent outbreaks. Wash sheets in very hot water (at minimum 120 degrees Fahrenheit, 49 degrees Celsius). Also, put bedding, clothing, toys and other washable items in the dryer for 20 minutes. The heat will kill bed bugs in all life cycles (egg, nymph, adult). After cleaning, do not allow bedding to touch the floor. Place non-washable items in a plastic bag and seal, then leave in a hot car or in direct sunlight. Target temperature for the interior of the bag should be at least 120 degrees. Bugs can also be frozen, but bags must be left in freezing temperatures (below 32 degrees Fahrenheit) for three to four days. Steam clean the mattress or discard it. Vacuum the carpet or floor. Use vacuum attachments to clean the crevices where carpet and flooring met wall. Scour headboard and bed frame (especially if they're made of wood) for small holes where the pests could live.

  Most importantly, consult a pest control company. Professionals will know how to find the bugs and how to eliminate them. Some pesticides will only cause the bugs to become more active. Do not apply insecticides without consulting a professional first as some formulas may contain skin-irritating chemicals.

Finding Relief

• Bed bug bites rarely transmit disease, but the itchy red welts cause discomfort and sleeplessness. Excessively scratching bites could cause infection and scarring.

  To treat bites, apply a topical antibiotic ointment or antiseptic lotion to cure infection. For severe bites that itch persistently, see a physician for a prescription for oral or topical antihistamines.

  To naturally treat bites, there are several options. Apply mud to the bite (mix herbal tea and powdered white clay), which will soothe the bite almost immediately. Starchy substances, such as grated potato and cooked oatmeal may ease pain and itching. The herb comfrey is also associated with soothing skin ailments and can be easily grown in a backyard garden.