Bedbugs are small-sized insects that suck on blood which usually thrive in crevices and cracks in and around the bed. They are attracted by carbon dioxide and body heat from humans and crawl out at night to bite on exposed skin and feed on blood.
Not everybody will end up with a skin reaction to bites from bedbugs, but some develop red, itchy bumps. These develop around 15-30 minutes after being bitten and can last for several days.
The bites by bedbugs are typically found on the neck, face, arm or hand and often mistaken as mosquito bites. Nevertheless, even though mosquito bites seem random in pattern, the bites often occur in straight lines. Even though bedbugs can be distressing, they are not dangerous and do not transmit any human diseases. Most individuals do not develop any serious skin reactions. However, it is vital to make the appropriate action to prevent the spread of an infestation.
How can I spot bedbugs?
- Check for any unexplained skin rashes or itchy bumps
- Check for mottled shells that the bedbugs shed
- Check for black spots on the mattress (dried feces)
- Look for any blood spots on the sheets where you might have rolled over and squished a bug after it has fed
- Check all the crevices and joints of the mattress and furniture with a torch for any bugs
- There is a musty odor in rooms with large-sized infestations which are produced by bedbugs once their scent glands are disturbed.
How to prevent an infestation
It is hard to avoid bedbugs since they are easily transported and might go unnoticed. It is recommended to check the mattress regularly for any indications and take immediate action if needed.
Avoid buying any second-hand mattresses and be careful with old beds you might be using in a rented accommodation.
Always keep the bedroom tidy and get rid of any clutter particularly from the floor and below the bed to minimize the available hiding places for bedbugs.
Treatment for bedbug bites
Since many individuals do not react to bites from bedbugs or only develop an unusual spot, treatment is not needed.
If an individual develops extremely itchy bumps, the doctor might prescribe a mild steroid cream to be applied on the skin or even antihistamine tablets to reduce the itchiness. The skin usually clears up within a week.
Some individuals might develop a more severe rash of blisters filled with fluid. In some instances, this increases the risk for infection once scratched which requires antibiotics.