What Do Bed Bug Bites Look Like?

Identifying bed bug bites can be challenging and is not guaranteed because it can be similar to other biting insects; therefore, it must not be used as the only sign of identifying a bed bug problem. Everyone reacts differently to bed bug bites, but the typical reaction is small, red, raised, itchy bumps. It is important to note that roughly 70% of people do not react to bed bug bites, when first bitten. People can also experience a delay from the time they were bitten to the time it takes to react. This means you may not react to bites received until some time later.

Do Bed Bugs Transmit Diseases?

No. All studies conducted to date indicate that there is no evidence to suggest that bed bugs  transmit disease to humans or from humans to humans. The only source of nutrition for a bed bug is, you guessed it, blood! In order for a bed bug to mature into an adult, it must feed once during each life stage. In order to produce eggs, a female adult needs blood. Even though bed bugs bite humans, they are not known carriers of any transmittable diseases. Besides being repulsive, bed bugs can still have a negative impact on people’s health. Scratching from itchy bed bug bites can lead to secondary infections. Some highly sensitive people can show severe reactions to the bites. And further, infestations can cause bug-phobia, emotional and psychological stress in some people. 

How Do Bed Bugs Bite?

Bed bugs use their elongated beak made of stylets to pierce human skin and extract blood. They use the stylets to pierce the skin, inject saliva which contains an anesthetic to numb the area and help avoid detection, as they extract the blood. After about five to ten minutes of feeding, the bed bug will return to its hiding place.

Are Bed Bug Bites Painful?

Bites can be painful depending on the sensitivity of individuals but overall, it is not painful and many people will not  feel the bite nor react to it, making detection that much more difficult. Some people will develop itchy red welts over the next few days. If the area becomes swollen, a small red welt may appear. This welt is often itchy and can last for up to a few days. Reactions occur because of the anticoagulant saliva injected during feeding. 

Bed bug rash

Bed bug bites can be mixed up with other biting insects such as mosquito bites. An indicator that it might be bed bug bites is the pattern of the bites. They often occur in a group or line of three or four and are usually in an area that would be exposed during sleep. Bed bugs do not transmit disease and the bites will usually disappear within a few days. If a rash persists or becomes infected, you should contact your doctor or a medical professional immediately.

Bed Bug Bite Treatments

If you have bed bug bites, be sure to wash the areas with soap and water. If you’re experiencing any itchiness, consult a health professional.

Bed Bug Problem? Call Orkin Canada.

If you think you may have a bed bug infestation, we can help. Call us today to schedule a free consultation for bed bug pest control.