Duration of Bedbug Bites
Bedbug bite reactions are self-limited and typically resolve within one to two weeks without treatment. 1
Timeline of Resolution
- Most reactions clear spontaneously within 1-2 weeks, representing the natural course of the inflammatory response to bedbug saliva 1
- Lesions may persist longer in previously sensitized individuals who develop exaggerated local reactions such as vesicles, urticarial wheals, bullae, or nodules 2
- Pruritus duration parallels the visible skin changes, generally subsiding as the papules and erythema fade over the same 1-2 week period 3, 1
Clinical Presentation Affecting Duration
- Typical reactions present as pruritic, erythematous maculopapules in clusters or linear patterns on exposed body areas, with these standard lesions following the 1-2 week resolution timeline 2
- Exaggerated reactions including bullous lesions, diffuse urticaria, or nodular eruptions may take longer to resolve, though specific extended timelines are not well-documented in the literature 2
- Secondary complications such as localized infection from scratching can prolong symptoms beyond the typical 2-week window 4
Symptomatic Management to Accelerate Resolution
- Topical corticosteroids hasten resolution of significant eruptions by controlling inflammation and pruritus 2
- Topical pramoxine and oral antihistamines alleviate pruritus but do not necessarily shorten the overall duration of visible lesions 2
- Treatment is primarily symptomatic since the reactions are self-limited, with the goal being comfort rather than cure 2, 3
Important Caveats
- New bites will continue to appear if the infestation is not eradicated, creating the false impression that individual bites last longer than they actually do 1
- Psychological distress from infestation may persist well beyond the physical resolution of bites and can be debilitating, requiring separate attention 3, 1
- Systemic reactions are rare but can include asthma, angioedema, generalized urticaria, and rarely anaphylaxis, which may require extended management 1