Bed bugs

Overview

Look for tiny blood spots and dark specks on sheets.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Itchy bites in a line
• Bites in a line or row

When to get medical care

Causes

Bed bugs.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It usually doesn't spread from person to person.
• People get it from: carried in luggage, furniture, or clothing.

Who is more likely to get it

• Travel
• Used furniture

Diagnosis

Bites look like other bug bites.

Treatment

Treat bites and the home.

Self-care

• Wash bites with soap
• Use anti-itch cream
• Wash bedding hot and dry on high
• Call a pest professional

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent:

• Check hotel beds

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Bites heal.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bed bugs