Bedbug Bite Remedies

Bed bugs can live for months. They hide when daylight comes and come out at night to search for food such as blood from their victims, according to KidsHealth.org. A special coating in their salvia causes the blood not to clot, making it easier for the bedbug to dine on their victims.

Anti-Inflammatory Cream

An over-the-counter anti-inflammatory cream can treat bedbug bites. If the bitten area becomes reddened and starts oozing fluid, a doctor needs to get involved to evaluate whether a possible infection has occurred. In the case of infection the areas need treatment with antibiotic cream and, potentially, prescribed oral antibiotics.

Oral Antihistamines

An oral anti-histamine will help stop the itching that occurs with bed bug bites, the Mayo Clinic reports. The person should not scratch the bites to prevent infection from occurring. The antihistamine helps to stop the inflammation.

Long Sleeves and Pants

Long-sleeved shirts and long pants can prevent further bedbug bites, according to the Mayo Clinic. Bed bugs do not hide themselves in clothing that a person is wearing. Similarly, wearing long underwear or pajamas can help to cut down on bites during sleep. Only eradicating the bedbugs from the bed, however, will prevent all bites.

Lotions

Antihistamine lotions as well as calamine lotions can help with the itching. The person should remember to leave the bite area open to the air so it can dry. This will help reduce the inflammation and size of the bitten area, according to Kidshealth.org.

Bite Prevention

Hiring someone to exterminate the bedbugs could be necessary to rid yourself of the vermin. It's difficult to exterminate bedbugs because they live in cracks and crevices, but a professional exterminator can end the problem. Keeping bedbugs out of the home will help prevent further bites, allowing the bitten areas to heal.

Avoid the Sun

A person with bedbug bites should avoid prolonged sun exposure, according to the Mayo Clinic. Urticaria, also known as hives or raised, red itchy patches on the skin, can occur because of bedbug bite irritation. Keeping the areas covered remains important for the healing process.