Do Bed Bugs Burn When They Bite?

WouterSeptember 14, 2022September 14, 2022

Bedbugs do not burn, and their bite is usually not painful. These tiny, wingless bugs live in dry, dark crevices and come out at night to feed. The bites can last from an hour to a week, depending on your reaction. In many cases, you will not notice the redness until a few days later.

If you feel intense itching from the bites, you should visit a dermatologist for treatment. A topical steroid cream may help to reduce the itch, but antibiotics are not required. You should always wash your skin thoroughly and not scratch the bites. This will prevent the rash from becoming infected and can prevent a more severe allergic reaction.

Some people may not notice the irritation, but they will experience a blood blister-like reaction, or a so-called “bullous” reaction. These reactions are a darker red color, and they may persist for days or weeks. They may leave a scar or bruising, but they are not life-threatening.

Bedbug bites are itchy and may cause hives if you have an allergy to the insects. Usually, these bites are on your lower legs or feet, but you can get them on any part of your body. Unlike mosquito bites, bedbugs cannot transmit disease via their bites, but their bites can lead to secondary infection.