Bedbug  bites

Bedbug bites are painless, but some people experience a reaction to them. This can occur from a few minutes after being bitten up to a week or two later.

Bedbug bites:

  • can cause Pruritus red bumps on the skin
  • usually occur on exposed areas such as the face, neck, hands or arms
  • often occur in lines across the skin
  • may cause a rash or fluid-filled blisters in more severe cases
  • can become infected with bacteria if scratched  signs of infection include pain, increasing redness and swelling

The bites usually fade in a few days. If they're very itchy, you can buy a mild  steroid cream (such as hydrocortisone) or antihistamine tablets to relieve the itch.

See your GP if you develop signs of a skin infection (pain, redness and swelling). You may need antibiotics .

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018