What are the treatment options for bed bug bites?

Bed bug bites can cause itchy red bumps, swelling, or clusters of marks, although reactions vary between people. The skin reaction may appear after a delay, so the marks alone cannot confirm the source. Treatment calms the body's response; it does not remove bed bugs from bedding, furniture, or a room. A clinician can consider other causes of itchy bites or a rash if the pattern is unusual.

Wash the affected skin gently, use a cool compress, and keep fingernails short to reduce damage from scratching. An oral antihistamine may ease itch, while a topical corticosteroid may calm local inflammation when suitable for your skin and age. Use either medicine exactly as directed and avoid applying steroid cream to the eyes, mouth, or broken skin unless instructed. Arrange professional pest control and launder or heat-treat fabrics according to local guidance so new bites are less likely.

Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing, dizziness, or widespread hives. Contact a clinician if bites become increasingly painful, warm, swollen, or pus-filled, or if fever develops, because scratching can lead to a skin infection. Get advice if severe itch prevents sleep or the rash does not settle after the suspected exposure ends.

Ask whether the marks fit bites or another rash, which medicine is appropriate for your age and other conditions, how long to use it, and what signs would suggest infection or an allergic emergency.