How to Relieve Itching From Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are parasitic insects that have seen a rise in infestations. Bed bugs are no larger than apple seeds. While some people may never experience a skin reaction to a bedbug bite, nearly a third of afflicted bedbug bite sufferers will develop an allergic response, as indicated by the American Academy of Dermatology. Itchy, raised clusters of bite marks will appear on the skin. Treatment of the itching is important in order to prevent sores and infections from developing.

Things You'll Need

• Antihistamine
• Hydrocortisone
• Warm compress
• Anti-itch lotion
• Antiseptic
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Antibiotic

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Take an antihistamine to block the production of histamines. Exposure to allergens, which are released through a bed bug's bite, releases histamines. Histamines are responsible for symptoms associated with bedbug bites.

• 2

  Use a cream containing hydrocortisone, recommends MayoClinic.com. Low-strength hydrocortisone (1 percent and less) can be purchased over-the-counter. The cream can be applied up to four times a day and should be used prior to bed to offer nighttime itch relief.

• 3

  Use a warm compress on your affected skin. The heat will soothe your itching.

• 4

  Use an anti-itch lotion. Many anti-itch lotions contain zinc, which also acts as an antiseptic to help prevent infection.