Wash the bite area with mild soap and water
Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in cloth for 10–15 minutes, repeat as needed
Use an anti-itch lotion or cream such as pramoxine or calamine
Apply 1% hydrocortisone cream thinly 1–2 times daily for up to 7 days
Take an oral antihistamine for itching, such as cetirizine, loratadine, or diphenhydramine (follow label directions)
Avoid scratching; keep nails trimmed and consider covering the area with a bandage if needed
If skin is broken, gently clean the area and cover with a sterile dressing
Use pain relief if needed, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (follow label directions)
Launder clothing and bedding in hot water and dry on high heat; bag items that can’t be washed
Vacuum mattresses, bed frames, and surrounding areas; empty vacuum contents promptly
Contact a licensed pest control professional to eliminate bed bugs
Seek urgent medical care if you develop trouble breathing, widespread hives, facial/lip swelling, fever, rapidly spreading redness, pus, severe pain, or signs of infection (increasing warmth, swelling, or tenderness)
See a clinician if itching persists beyond a week or bites are extensive