Infestations & Bites
Bed Bug Bites
WHAT IS IT
Itchy bites from small biting insects
HOW COMMON
Common; a rising problem worldwide
CONTAGIOUS?
No — but bugs travel on items and spread
CURABLE?
Yes — bites heal; the infestation must be treated
What Is It?
Bed bug bites are itchy red bumps, often in a line or cluster, caused by small insects that feed on blood at night and hide in mattresses, furniture, and cracks during the day. The bites themselves are harmless but very itchy; the main challenge is eliminating the infestation from the home.
Signs & Symptoms
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Itchy red bumps, often in a line or cluster ("breakfast, lunch, dinner")
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Bites on skin exposed during sleep (arms, shoulders, face)
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Bites noticed in the morning
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Small blood spots or dark specks on bedding
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A musty odor in heavy infestations
Why Does It Happen?
Bed bugs are small, flat insects that hide near where people sleep and come out at night to feed. They spread by hitchhiking on luggage, used furniture, and clothing — not because of dirtiness. Bites are a reaction to their saliva; some people react strongly while others barely notice. Getting rid of them requires treating the environment, not just the skin.
Treatment Options
Bites are treated for itch and heal on their own; the essential step is eliminating the bed bugs from your home, usually with professional pest control.
SOOTHE THE BITES
Topical steroids and oral antihistamines for itch.
TREAT THE HOME
Professional pest control is usually needed to eliminate them.
LAUNDER HOT
Wash and dry bedding/clothing on high heat (≥60°C).
PREVENT SPREAD
Inspect luggage and used furniture; isolate infested items.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Wash and hot-dry bedding and clothing; heat kills bed bugs
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Don't scratch — it can lead to infection
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Inspect second-hand furniture and hotel beds before use
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Act early and consider professional pest control for the home
When to Call Your Provider
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Bites become infected (pus, spreading redness, pain)
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Severe allergic reaction or widespread welts
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Bites not healing or an unclear diagnosis
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The infestation persists despite home efforts
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Bed Bugs: Diagnosis and Treatment. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/itchy-skin/bug-bites/treat-bed-bug-bites
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About Bed Bugs. https://www.cdc.gov/bed-bugs/about/index.html
DermNet. Bed Bug Bites. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/bed-bugs
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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