Bed Bugs
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs are small, flat insects that bite your exposed skin and feed on your blood while you sleep. They can spread from person to person. They hide in the folds and seams of bed linens, furniture cracks, and electrical outlets. They are common in areas of frequent travel or buildings with shared walls, such as hotels or apartments.
What are the signs and symptoms of bed bug bites?
You may have swollen areas that are irritated or itch. These areas may appear right away or several days after you were bitten. The bite marks may be in a straight line or in random areas. They look like mosquito or flea bites. You may also have swelling, fluid-filled blisters, or open sores from scratching the bites.
How are bed bug bites treated?
Bites usually go away on their own. You may need medicines to help decrease itching and inflammation. These may be given as a pill, cream, or ointment. Do not scratch the bite marks. Scratching may cause a skin infection.
What can I do to prevent bed bugs?
- Protect your clothes and luggage when you travel. Inspect them often for bed bugs. Keep your luggage closed tightly when you are not using it. Keep your luggage in the bathroom, or place contents in sealed plastic bags.
- Inspect any used items you bring into your home. You may need to fumigate used furniture. Examine cardboard boxes or other items with small cracks where bed bugs could hide.
- Remove clutter from the area where you sleep. Place your mattress or box spring in a sealed bag. Seal any cracks or molding in the walls or furniture.
- Wash bed linens and clothes in hot, soapy water. Wash the items in water that is at least 130°F (50°C) for 2 hours, or 20°F (-5°C) or colder for 5 days. Dry them in a dryer on the hot setting for at least 20 minutes. Dry cleaning is also effective to get rid of bed bugs.
- Tell someone about the bed bugs. This may include a landlord, hotel manager, or pest control company. Insecticide sprays are used to get rid of bed bugs.
Call 911 for any of the following:
- You have trouble breathing.
- You have swelling in your lips, tongue, or throat.
When should I seek immediate care?
- You feel lightheaded, dizzy, or faint.
- Your heart is beating faster than usual.
- You are vomiting and cannot stop.
When should I contact my healthcare provider?
- You have very swollen, painful bite marks.
- You have a fever.
- You have open sores that are draining pus.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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Further information
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