Bed bugs are tiny blood-sucking pests that feed on humans and pets. These small creatures hide during the day and come out to feed at night because they’re drawn to warm human bodies, carbon dioxide, and body heat.
A bedbug bite is usually painful when it occurs. The bites become swollen and reddish-brown due to an allergic reaction in some people, making them worse. Some people may not experience symptoms even after being bitten by these pests, but others will feel an itching sensation on their skin within 1-2 weeks.
Bed bug infestation can be difficult to eradicate if it is severe. These insects are parasitic and feed on blood, so they tend to thrive in areas with a lot of human traffic. The first step to get rid of bed bugs is by calling a bed bug exterminator to do the job for you. However, you can also try some home remedies for bed bug bites overnight, including:
Apply an ice pack or cold compress
This old age remedy is as effective as any other treatment for bed bug bites. All you have to do is wrap some ice in a cloth or a clean handkerchief and hold it over the affected area. Doing this will help calm the itching and irritation associated with the bite. If the itching continues, repeat this process several times till you experience relief from the symptoms. This method is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive ones.
Use clove oil
Many essential oils can act as natural remedies for bed bug bites. Of these, clove oil is one of the most popular options. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the swelling caused by bed bug bites. It also helps reduce pain and itching associated with them. To use clove oil, dip a cotton ball in it and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for a few hours and rinse it off with water.
Oatmeal baths
Oatmeal baths are great for helping to relieve itchy welts from many different types of rashes and insect bites, such as bed bug bites and spider bites. Add 1 cup of oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak for 15 minutes to relieve symptoms. You can also make an oatmeal paste by combining three tablespoons of oatmeal with enough water to make a paste, then apply it directly to your skin. Let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing off with hot water.
Use tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is an effective treatment to help quickly get rid of bed bug bites. It contains anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and irritation caused by bed bug bites. You can directly apply a few drops of tea tree oil on your bed bug bites with a cotton swab. Repeat this remedy several times a day until you heal completely.
Apply witch hazel
Like tea tree oil, witch hazel is a natural astringent with anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and itchiness associated with these bites. Dab a cotton ball in witch hazel extract and apply it directly to the affected area.
Take an oral antihistamine
You can take an over-the-counter antihistamine to reduce itching and burning from bed bug bites. It is also helpful for reducing stress or anxiety caused by itchy bites. You may have drowsiness as a side effect when using oral antihistamines, so use them with caution if you are driving or operating machinery.
Conclusion
Bed bugs bites might feel incredibly itchy, but you can prevent hives if you don’t scratch the affected area. These critters are so challenging to get rid of because they can go weeks, if not months, without feeding. During this time, they are very good at hiding in bedding, upholstered furniture, mattress seams, bed frames, and other friendly spots. By the time a person notices bites on their body, the bed bugs have been on them for quite some time.
DIY bed bug treatment is an effective way to clear up those bites for good. You need good pest control service if you think you have a bedbug infestation. A professional beg bug exterminator will use proper heat treatments or insecticides to eliminate the infestation.
At Goodwin Environmental, we can quickly and efficiently eliminate your pest problem, giving you some well-deserved peace of mind. Call us today to learn more!
