Bed bugs are very sneaky and difficult pests to detect. They’re extremely small and almost impossible to spot. However, when you find mysterious bumps on your skin, it could be due to these master hiders. Here’s how to know if you’ve been bitten by bed bugs:
Know where bed bugs come from.
Don’t be fooled by their name — bed bugs aren’t only found in your bed. Although they’re commonly found in mattresses, box springs, and bedframes, they can be found in lots of other places, including:
- Couch cushions
- Rugs and carpet
- Cracks and crevices of furniture
- Curtains
- Along corners of walls and baseboards
Bed bugs don’t only live in people’s homes and apartments, either. They can be found in public places like hotels, buses, and trains. These expert travelers make their way to your home by catching a ride on your luggage or purse. When figuring out whether or not you have bed bug bites, understand where bed bugs come from and rule out any possibilities.
Know where bed bugs bite.
Unfortunately, bed bugs can bite anywhere your skin meets your bed. This includes:
- Face and neck
- Arms and legs
- Hands
- Back
Know what bed bug bites look like.
Bed bug bites are small bumps that are often red or purple in color. They appear irritated and inflamed on the skin, and may even swell on certain people. The most common bed bug bites are in a straight line or zigzag pattern and are often mistaken for a rash or hives.
Many people confuse bed bug bites as mosquito or flea bites. Mosquito bites are usually bigger, single bites that look puffy or blistered. If there are multiple mosquito bites, there is no specific pattern. Whereas, flea bites, which are small like bed bug bites, are largely found in a cluster pattern toward the ankle and feet.
Know the symptoms of bed bug bites.
Bed bugs are super sneaky. When they bite, they release chemicals that numb your skin and stop you from bleeding. Meaning, you can’t feel when you’re being bit. Often, you won’t know you’ve been bitten by bedbugs until you see bumps and irritation on your skin, which can be days (or even weeks) later. Some people even get bitten but never show symptoms.
Bed bug bites symptoms include:
- Itchiness
- Inflamed skin
- Burning
- Swelling
Bed bug bites are very uncomfortable and can mean you have an infestation. If you see signs that you or your family has been bitten by bed bugs, don’t wait to get help. Here at Pro-Staff, we’re experts in bed bug control and know just how quickly an infestation can spread. Call us at 515-279-7378 or contact us online for a free inspection.
