Bed bug bites

I was bitten by bed bugs Sept. 10 at a motel. The symptoms did not appear untill 8 days later. Here it is Nov. 6 and although the bites on my arm are much better, they still haven't healed fully. Is it normal for healing to take so long? Is there anything I can do to speed the healing?
Thanks

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
In case of bed bug bites firstly, it’s important to keep the affected area clean. Wash the bites with some antiseptic lotion or soap. Use cold water but avoid the use of warm or hot water as this may tend to stimulate itch. Secondly, apply a cold pack over the bites to reduce swelling.

Please do not scratch the inflamed area as this may lead to open wounds and secondary infections. You may apply a mild steroid cream like 1% hydrocortisone cream and take OTC anthistaminics like Benadryl or Claritin. In case of intense itching an oral dose of anti-histamine like Dimetapp, Chlortrimeton is very effective in relieving itch. Once the itch stops, you will stop scratching as well and the healing will take place faster.

But if the symptoms do not improve or worsen then please consult a dermatologist
I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing. Kind regards.