Bed Bug Bites
Bed bugs pierce the skin of their host using
their proboscis (feeding organ) into the skin.
Saliva is then injected, which contains an
anticoagulant to stop the blood from clotting &
an anesthetic to numb the area & then feeds on
the blood. Engorgement takes approximately 10
minutes. Bites from bed bugs can cause localised
irritation & inflammation. Repeated exposure can
cause some people to become sensitised,
resulting in mild to severe allergic reactions.
How to treat a bed bug bite:
-
Wash the area
with soap & water.
-
Apply a cool
compress or ice to the area to reduce pain &
swelling.
-
Use
acetaminophen to relieve pain & discomfort
(if needed).
-
Antihistamines
may also be useful if there is severe
itching. Speak to your chemist or doctor
first.
Further
reading:
Bed Bugs
