How to spot bedbugs and get rid of them

What are the signs of bedbugs?

Bedbugs are small insects that live on furniture or bedding - and can be found on mattresses, clothing or bed frames. Although their bites are often itchy, they tend not to cause any other health issues.

The signs of bedbugs include bites on your skin which are raised and itchy. They may appear red or purple, depending on your skin tone. Often the bites appear in groups or lines.

You might see spots of blood on your bedding, either from the bites or from squashing a bedbug. Sometimes, infestations may be accompanied by a musty smell.

There might also be bedbug poo on your bedding, which looks like tiny brown spots.

What does a bedbug look like?

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Salud de la piel, las uñas y el cabello

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Urticaria

The medical name for hives is urticaria. Hives are itchy red or white bumps on the skin that look like a nettle rash. Hives are caused by a release of histamine; sometimes this is due to a a physical stimulus. If this is the case, the condition is called inducible urticaria or physical urticaria. Examples of physical factors which can trigger hives include pressure, friction, allergies, sweating, cold, heat, sunlight and water. Treatments include avoiding the trigger (where possible), and using antihistamines. Urticaria can be called acute (short-lived episode) or chronic (persisting).

por la Dra. Philippa Vincent, MRCGP

Cómo tratar las picaduras de chinches

Bedbug bites usually clear up on their own in a week or so. You should try not to scratch them and to keep them clean to avoid getting an infection. You can soothe them with a cool, damp cloth if they are sore or itchy.

You can get a mild steroid cream or antihistamines from your pharmacy to reduce itching or swelling.

If the redness or swelling isn’t going away or is spreading, you may have an infection and you should see your doctor.

¿Qué aspecto tiene una picadura de chinche?

Cómo deshacerse de las chinches

To get rid of bedbugs, you should wash your bedding and clothing on a hot wash at 60C. You can also buy special detergent that is designed to kill bedbugs - but it may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin.

You could also use a handheld steamer on mattresses, sofas, and other places where bedbugs hide.

Deep cleaning your mattress regularly will allow you to spot bedbugs, so you can get rid of them before they spread. Check all areas of your bedroom or affected room for signs of bedbugs, including the walls, wallpaper, curtains, cushions and furniture.

Cleaning and vacuuming regularly will also keep bedbugs at bay. Insecticide sprays can also be used to kill the bugs.