They're back! Bedbugs are back in the news again and they're coming to a mattress or couch near you.

They're back! Bedbugs are back in the news again and they're coming to a mattress or couch near you. It's bad enough that bedbugs suck your blood but then you also have to deal with the itching, burning and pain from their bites. So what are the best ways to treat bedbug bites?

The key to treating bedbug bites is to control the itch. Controlling the itching can help reduce the scratching as well as the accompanying anxiety. The itch and pain are the result of an allergic reaction to chemicals contained in the bedbug's saliva. The use of topical steroids such as hydrocortisone has demonstrated effectiveness in helping to control local itching. Oral steroids, such as Prednisone, frequently used for poison ivy rashes have demonstrated surprisingly little benefit in controlling the symptoms of bedbug bites.

Oral antihistamines can be helpful at controlling the itch of bedbug bites. Older versions such as Benadryl tablets are effective; however, they also tend to be sedating. Consider using Benadryl in the evening to help with sleep. Newer oral antihistamines such as Zyrtec and Claritin are also effective and less sedating. These are reasonable daytime options.

There are many brands of topical creams and lotions available that can help soothe both the pain and itch associated with bedbug bites. Look for choices that contain combinations of topical diphenhydramine (for itching), pramoxine (for pain) or benzyl alcohol (for itching and pain).

The application of either heat or cold can help to alleviate bedbug bite itching. Both extremes have some benefit as long as you avoid burning or freezing your skin in the process. Controversy exists as to which treatment provides superior results; try both out and use the that works best for you.

Adding a gastric reflux medication such as Zantac or Tagamet to an oral antihistamine short term can further help to reduce the itching symptoms of bedbug bites.

Bedbug bites are irritating and stress provoking but rarely medically dangerous. Be aware that persistent uncontrolled scratching can cause both scarring and skin infections. See your doctor if the itching and discomfort from your bedbug bites aren't adequately controlled or if you develop signs of a skin infection.

* There are several different treatment options available to control the itching and pain associated with bedbug bites. It often is best to use a combination of these options since each usually work in a different manner. A mixture of both oral and topical medications tends to work faster and more effectively.
* These treatments can help relieve bedbug bite symptoms but by themselves don't shorten the duration of skin lesions