Bed bugs feed on human blood and their bites can be extremely itchy. Hence, understanding which bed bug bite medicine to use is essential to prevent secondary skin infections. Small children are especially prone to sores and bacterial infections from scratching the bite sites. Often, these require steroids or antibiotics for treatment. Hence, bed bug bite medicine and other remedies must be used as the first line of treatment to prevent potential complications.
Identifying Bed Bug Bites
Before using a specific bed bug bite medicine or other natural remedies, it is essential to identify if the bites are indeed caused by bed bugs in the first place. This is because; many other skin conditions are very similar to bed bug bite rashes. Naturally, the use of bed bug bite medicine on such rashes is not going to help. Here are a few signs and symptoms of bed bug activity:
- Bed Bug Bites on the skin– Bed bug bites can be seen on all exposed body parts such as face, arms, legs, and neck or, sometimes, even the back or abdomen. The bites typically appear in a linear pattern; there may be a reddish swollen area with a dark red epicenter. Some sensitive people develop hives or blisters. The bites are usually very itchy. You might also experience a burning sensation for days after the bite. In very rare cases, a person might go into an anaphylactic shock due to beg bug bites.
- Bed Bug signs in sleeping areas– Bed bugs also leave their exoskeletons and dark fecal stains in the sleeping areas, especially in the corners of mattresses etc. You might even notice a pungent odor, which many describe as ‘sweet, obnoxious or almond like’.
Bed bug bite medicine and other natural remedies
Once you are sure that you or your loved ones are suffering from bed bug bites, it is time to consider the right bed bug bite medicine. The correct remedy can speed up healing and prevent secondary skin infections. Typically, bed bug bites on human skin heal with 3 days. In some cases, they may take up to a week to heal.
Here are a few bed bug bite medicine and natural remedies for at-home treatment:
- Before applying any bed bug bite medicine, wash the site with warm water and soap. This will reduce itchiness and prevent the infection from spreading.
- Take an antihistamine such as Benadryl to help counter itching, swelling or burning sensation.
- Application of ice cubes on the bite site can also reduce itchiness and swelling.
- Children must be taught not scratch the bite site. If there are pus-filled blisters or fever present, make sure to seek prompt medical attention.
- Applying an antiseptic cream or lotion or an over-the-counter antibacterial ointment can prevent the infection from worsening.
- Natural remedies for bed bug bites on human skin include Aloe Vera gel taken directly from the plant and applied directly on the inflamed skin. Aloe Vera has soothing compounds that help reduce itching and facilitate healing. Calendula and Marigold extracts are other effective natural remedies for treating bed bug bites on skin.
- For severe allergic reaction, you might need to take a prescription antihistamine injection, pill or liquid. A dermatologist can also recommend corticosteroid based bed bug bite medicine in the right strength for treating the rash. Less than 1% Corticosteroid is also available without prescription and can be applied as an at-home bed bug bite medicine.
Bed Bug bites usually heal by themselves within a week. Using the aforementioned bed bug bite medicine and remedies, you can prevent further complications and also speed up healing.
