With millions of species of bugs and insects, thousands of which bite or sting humans, proper identification of bed bug bites can be a challenge. The longer a bed bug problem goes undiagnosed, the more difficult and expensive effective bed bug treatment becomes.
Bed bug bites are usually itchy, raised, and inflamed; this statement unfortunately also describes most insect bites and stings. Below, we answer whether you should be concerned about bed bug bites, and when you should get professional help.
It can be difficult to tell a bed bug bite apart from bites caused by other insects, and other insects look similar to bed bugs. Most bites look similar, and unless you actually see the bed bug biting you, it's nearly impossible to know for sure what caused the bite. That said, they are usually small, red, itchy bumps that may become inflamed. It is best to seek medical attention immediately if you find a bite on yourself.
Bed bug bites often appear in clusters or lines and are most likely to show up on parts of the body that are exposed while sleeping.
What are the signs and symptoms of bed bug bites? While bed bug bites will likely result in small, red, and itchy bumps, in some cases, a person might experience an allergic reaction. This can lead to more severe redness, swelling, or itching. Still, these symptoms are not unique to bed bug bites, which is why it's important not to rely on appearance alone.
If you suspect you have been bitten, check your sleeping area for signs of bed bugs, especially around upholstered furniture, mattress seams, and baseboards. They might look like small dark spots or live bugs roughly the size of an apple seed. Confirming a bed bug infestation is the most reliable way to determine the cause of any unexplained bites.
Read our dedicated guide to bed bugs for more information about their behaviors and habits.
Bed bugs have a needle-like mouth part that tucks into a special slot built into their underside. The needle emerges when the bed bug is ready to feed, piercing the skin through to the blood vessel beneath. The bed bug injects saliva that numbs the area, so the bite is not felt, and releases an anticoagulant so that blood flows freely.
Bed bugs are attracted to the heat and carbon monoxide that humans give off when they breathe. Their senses allow them to find the blood vessels closest to the surface of the skin. Although their ability to feed is not quite as fast or economical as a mosquito's, they manage to feed relatively quickly before returning to their hiding places. If the person wakes up while they're being bitten, bed bugs are likely to scuttle away and hide, only to return after to pick up where they left off.
Bed bug bites can occur anywhere on the body, but often happen close to blood vessels near the skin. Think about the type of pajamas you wear and check for signs of bites on exposed areas such as your neck, hands, arms, and legs. If bites are located on the body parts your sleepwear doesn't cover, bed bugs are likely to be the culprit.
The short answer is, probably not. Unlike mosquitoes, whose bites are known vectors of many diseases, bed bug bites are not considered to be dangerous.
So how do you treat bed bug bites? Treatment for bed bug bites can vary depending on how severe the reaction is and how your body responds. Some people may only notice minor itching or irritation, while others could experience more intense discomfort or an allergic reaction.
If you're unsure how to treat your bites or if symptoms worsen, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice. They can help recommend solutions to ease any swelling or itching. If you’re concerned about any bites, getting medical advice is the best course of action.
Bed bug bites often appear in clusters or lines and are most likely to show up on parts of the body that are exposed while sleeping.
Home remedies for bed bug bites are commonly talked about online, but they can carry some risks. These approaches might not work for everyone, and in some cases, they can cause irritation or other unintended effects.
Some popular remedies include applying pure aloe vera gel, lemon juice, witch hazel, a paste of baking soda and water, or even toothpaste. These are said to help with itching and discomfort, but they haven't been proven to be effective in all cases.
Before trying any home treatment, it's always best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist to avoid worsening the reaction or causing a new one.
Everyone has a unique reaction to bed bug bites, so if you are concerned about your bites, contact your physician.
If you're seeing bed bug bites, or recognising the signs of them, it means you may need bed bug control to help you get rid of bed bugs and give you peace of mind. Start with an inspection today.
Call our local experts now {telNumber} ({openingHoursSummary}) or view more details about your nearest branch