Bed bug bites are itchy and uncomfortable, and usually happen while you’re deep asleep. No one wants to be bitten, but unfortunately these bites can be quite common during a bed bug infestation. Bed bug bites can often be mistaken for other bug bites, so it’s important to properly identify your bug bites so that you can treat them effectively.
Bed Bug Identification
When you see an insect scurrying around, your first instinct might not be to lean in closer. However, at first glance, bed bugs can easily be mistaken for other bugs that want to share your home. You will want to confirm what type of bug you find so that you can choose the most effective removal treatment.
Bed Bug Appearance
Bed bugs are small, flat, and usually brown in color. They are often related to an apple seed in size and appearance. However, they will swell a bit and gain a reddish color after biting and feeding on someone. They cannot fly, however, they can jump very high and run very quickly, making it seem like they can fly from one spot to another.
Bed Bug Bites
Unfortunately, these bites can easily be mistaken for other bug bites or even skin irritation and rashes. Bed bug bites are notorious for their zig-zag pattern or clustered bites. This is because when they bite, they will feed on a spot, move a bit, and keep feeding, producing a zig-zag or cluster of bites. You will most likely not notice when a bed bug bites you, since they only feed when their host is sleeping, and also produce a small amount of anesthetic when they bite.
However, you will most likely notice the itchy, burning bumps when you wake up or throughout the day. Bed bugs can also go days without feeding, so it may take some time for you to notice any bed bug bites at first.
Places to Check
If you have been in places you know contain bed bugs, make sure to check any clothing or bags that may have been exposed. If you want to be safe, wash your clothes and bags immediately and shower or bathe as well.
However, if you suspect an infestation in your home already, you’ll want to thoroughly check all potential hiding spots for bed bugs. Pay close attention to your mattress, bedding, box spring, headboards, pillows, furniture, and any other cracks or crevices you think they might crawl into.
Care for Bed Bug Bites
Most likely you’ll know you have bed bugs by finding bites on loved ones or yourself. These bites don’t pose serious health threats, but can become quite uncomfortable and itchy. Firstly, make sure to wash your clothing and bedding to remove any potential bugs. Next, wash your bug bites with soap and water to clean and sanitize the area. Sometimes a quick wash can be enough, but if not, you can always apply anti-itch creams or calamine lotion to relieve any discomfort. If your bites begin to swell and even cause pain, it’s recommended to take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
If these methods seem ineffective, or you begin to have allergic reactions to the bites, it’s best to call your doctor or visit a hospital. Of course, call 911 if the reactions are serious and debilitating.
Prevent Bed Bugs with Bed Bug BBQ
The best way to prevent bed bug bites is to avoid bed bugs altogether! If you suspect any bed bugs crawling around your home, call Bed Bug BBQ today! Our heat treatment solutions will eradicate any bed bugs without the need to fumigate your home. Visit our website or call (216) 221-1227 today!
The bed bugs have become common therefore homeowners need to be certain their home stays safe from your bed bugs. As soon as they begin growing in the house getting bugs is a task. It is your duty as a property manager. Since they don’t believe it to be among the obligation, the majority of…
Everyone reacts differently to bed bug bites. This is why there are a variety of reasons why bed bug bites may show up on one person and not others. For example, many people don’t even have an immediate reaction, while others will swell right away. So, why exactly do some people say bed bugs seemingly…
Moving into a new apartment is thrilling. You’ve got a space all to yourself that you can decorate however you like, not to mention cooking whatever you want to and living how you please. However, there are some potential concerns when moving into an apartment as well. You could be dealing with repairs, an unpleasant…
Bed bugs are able to travel fairly easily with the help of human travel and transport everyday. These insects nest in various parts of homes in small cracks and crevices, when not feeding. You can recognize the signs of bed bugs early on and prevent further damage by taking care of the problem professionally. The…
Bed bug infestations can cause a lot of frustration. Not only are they notoriously difficult to get rid of, but the bites they leave behind can be incredibly itchy and uncomfortable. If you’ve tried using bug spray but still have bed bugs, don’t worry, there are other things you can do! In this blog post,…
A bed bug infestation is a very alarming situation for any homeowner. It can become a persistent problem because these insects rely on speed, take shelter in small cracks, and hide while multiplying. Also, it can be difficult to kill bed bugs. Don’t be complacent, even if you’re keeping your house neat and clean. Bed…