What do bed bug bites look like? Where do bed bugs hide? When and where do bed bugs bite? How to treat bed bug bites. Discover the answers to these questions and more in our informative guide.

Identifying Bed Bug Bites: Understanding the Symptoms

Bed bug bites can be a frustrating and perplexing problem for homeowners. While they may not be as common as other bug bites, they can be a real nuisance if you wake up with a few itchy bumps. The key to identifying bed bug bites is to look for a distinct pattern. “They probe the skin in several different places, I think probably to find best access to draw blood,” says Timothy Gibb, Ph.D., a clinical professor of entomology at Purdue University. This can result in a line or cluster of 3 to 4 bites, which is a telltale sign of bed bug activity.

It’s important to note that not everyone reacts the same way to bed bug bites. “Everybody’s going to respond differently,” explains Gibb. “Same thing’s true with a mosquito bite. Some people are going to swell up and it’s going to itch. That same mosquito could bite someone else and it’s hardly noticeable.” In fact, some individuals, particularly the elderly, may not even have a visible reaction to the bites at all.

Where Do Bed Bugs Hide?

Identifying the location of bed bugs is crucial in determining the source of your bites. These pests naturally gravitate towards your mattress, especially in the corners, near the head end, and in the cord that goes around it. They also like to hide behind the headboard, behind any pictures on the wall, and in electrical sockets. Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed and are very flat from top to bottom, with a brownish color. Baby bed bugs are also brownish in color, but pinhead-sized. Another telltale sign of bed bug activity is the presence of black spots on your sheets, mattress, and mattress cover, which could be bed bug feces.

When and Where Do Bed Bugs Bite?

Bed bug bites typically occur on the arms, neck, or trunk of the body, as these are the most exposed areas during sleep. According to Changlu Wang, Ph.D., extension specialist in entomology at Rutgers University, bed bugs typically feed every two to three days when a host is present. This means that if you notice fresh bites appearing at that frequency, it could be an indication of a bed bug infestation.

Bed bugs are most active during the night, when people are sound asleep. “We’ve found it’s most active when people are most sound asleep, and that’s usually from about 2:00 to 4:00 in the morning,” says Gibb. “That’s natural for a parasite like that to do that because it’s going to protect it. People won’t see it, they won’t feel it. It makes their survivorship much more probable.”

Treating Bed Bug Bites

If you’ve been bitten by bed bugs and are experiencing an intense itch, the best course of action is to resist the urge to scratch. Scratching the bites will only further irritate the area. Instead, you can try using an antihistamine, such as Benadryl or Allegra, to help alleviate the itchy sensation.

It’s important to remember that while bed bug infestations can be a nuisance, they do not pose any serious threats to your health. “They don’t kill people,” says Gibb. “A parasite would have a hard time surviving if it killed its host, and these do not.” The primary concern with bed bugs is the potential cost and effort required to eliminate them from your home.

Detecting Bed Bug Infestations

If you suspect that your bites are the result of a bed bug infestation, it’s important to inspect your living space thoroughly. Look for the insects themselves, as well as signs of their presence, such as black spots on your bedding. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult with a professional exterminator to confirm the problem and develop an appropriate course of action.

Preventing Bed Bug Infestations

To reduce the risk of a bed bug infestation, it’s important to be vigilant and take proactive measures. Regularly inspect your mattress and bedding for signs of bed bugs, and consider using bed bug-proof encasements on your mattress and box spring. Additionally, be cautious when traveling and inspect your hotel room for any signs of bed bug activity.

Conclusion

Bed bug bites can be a frustrating and persistent problem, but understanding the symptoms and signs of their presence can help you take the necessary steps to address the issue. By being proactive and seeking professional help if needed, you can effectively manage bed bug infestations and maintain a comfortable, pest-free living environment.