Bed bug bites: The subtle sensation on your skin that means youve been bitten – Express

The nightmare does not end there - bed bug bites can cause allergic reactions in some people, warns the NHS.

As the health body explains, they can be very itchy and there may be painful swelling.

"A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is also possible but rare," it says.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction to a trigger such as an allergy.

READ MORE:Bed bugs warning: The 'musty' smell you should never ignore - signs of 'annoying' bites

Bedbug bites usually clear up on their own in a week or so but there are things you can do to alleviate symptoms.

The NHS recommends the following:

You can also ask a pharmacist about using a mild steroid cream like hydrocortisone cream to ease bed bug bites, the health body says.

If the bites are very itchy and you're unable to sleep, a pharmacist may recommend antihistamines, it adds.

Once your symptoms are treated, you must tackle the underlying infestation.

"This can be difficult because bed bugs hide so well and can live several months without eating," notes Mayo Clinic.

It adds: "Your best bet may be to hire a professional exterminator, who may use a combination of pesticides and non-chemical treatments."

Non-chemical treatments may include:

"Some professional exterminators use portable devices to raise the temperature of a room to a lethal temperature," says Mayo Clinic.

According to the NHS, there are a number of precautions you can take to stop them coming back.

The health body says to not take luggage or clothing indoors without checking it carefully if you have come from somewhere where you know there were bedbugs.

It also says:

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Bed bug bites: The subtle sensation on your skin that means youve been bitten - Express