How to Treat Bed Bug Bites

Bed bugs are insects that are rusty brown in color and are about 1/4 of an inch in length. They have flat bodies and resemble and cockroaches in appearance. The similarities stop there, because while roaches are frequently found in unsanitary environments, bed bugs can live anywhere there's living hosts on which to feed. An area's cleanliness has very little bearing on bed bug occurance.

Bed bugs are most active during night hours, and most often feed on sleeping people or pets. They often take up residence in mattresses, because they prefer to live close to where they feed. However, they can also be found in couches, chairs, and carpets. Bed bug infestation is characterized by dark spotting on furniture and mattresses that is the pests' dried excrement.

A bed bug bite is administered by the pest's sharp, long beak, which pierces the skin and extracts blood with no pain or discomfort to the victim. However, the next day, the victim may exhibit red bumps or welts that burn or itch.

Fortunately, bed bugs don't carry dangerous diseases, but their bites can be uncomfortable. How to treat bed bug bites will depend on the level of discomfort the victim experiences. An important thing is not to scratch the bites, because this only makes discomfort worse. Basic calamine lotion can be applied to control itching.

To reduce infection, keep the bites cleaned thoroughly with antiseptic soap and hot water. After washing, apply either calamine or another anti-itch cream. An icepack can help with any swelling or pain, and the use of soothing oatmeal or milk baths can reduce the itchy, burning sensations associated with these types of bites.

Tea tree oil is a natural remedy that's used to treat many different conditions, including bed bug bites. This oil can be applied to bites and offers not only disinfection but relief of uncomfortable symptoms.

There are a wide variety of skin treatments on the market that are designed to treat bug bites and provide relief. You can check the shelves of your local supermarket, pharmacy, or discount store. Another option is to shop online for products that alleviate discomfort due to insect bites. These days you can even find products made strictly from natural ingredients like herbs and floral extracts.

Copyright 2006 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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