Okay, so you’ve got a bit of a bed bug infestation. You already quarantined the affected areas of your home and called the professionals at Bed Bug Solutions, so there’s nothing left to do but…itch!
If you’ve been chewed up by these pests, the itching could persist long after the infestation has been eradicated. If you are still losing sleep even in the absence of bed bugs because of the stubborn discomfort of bites, try these natural home remedies to keep you from scratching.
Cold compress. Pulling back the sheets to find your body covered in itchy welts from bed bug bites can be a rude awakening. An easy way to find relief from isolated swelling and discomfort is to apply an ice pack to the affected area. The cold will monopolize the sensory receptors surrounding the bites, distracting from the localized itching. Another option is to apply refrigerated cucumber slices to swollen or itchy areas.
Take a vinegar bath. Washing the affected area is a good idea to prevent your bites from becoming infected, particularly if you’ve been doing a lot of scratching. But adding apple cider vinegar to the mix can provide even better relief for inflammation and itch. Avoid bathwater that is too hot as it can dry out your skin and cause even more full-body itching. Instead, dilute a few cups of vinegar in a tub of lukewarm water and have yourself a nice soak.
Apply Aloe. Good for more than just burn treatment, aloe works great as a natural topical soothing agent. It’s cooling effect will provide relief for inflamed bed bug bites while promoting fast healing. With relief the aloe brings, you will forget all about your bites, making you less likely to scratch and cause unsightly scarring.
Bed bugs are not known to carry diseases; their itchy bites are considered more of a nuisance than a threat to human health. Home remedies are often enough when it comes to treating the telltale red bumps left by hungry bed bugs, but on rare occasions, people have experienced more serious allergic reactions to these pests. If you are concerned about your bite symptoms or feel their condition is worsening, it is best to have them looked at by a doctor.