Bedbugs – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Bedbugs are tiny, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood. They lack wings and typically measure about the size of an apple seed. These pests prefer to hide in small spaces around beds.
They hide in cracks in frames, box springs, and headboards. At night, they emerge to feed on sleeping humans.
Bites from these insects usually heal without treatment in one to two weeks. While bedbugs don’t transmit diseases, some people may experience allergic reactions or severe skin irritation from their bites.
You’re more likely to encounter bedbugs in places with frequent overnight guests, such as hotels, hospitals, and homeless shelters.
If you discover a bedbug infestation in your home, professional pest control is strongly recommended. These insects are difficult to eliminate without specialized treatment methods.
Signs of Bedbugs
Bedbug bite marks look like many other bug bites or skin rashes. They often appear as:
- Red, swollen spots with a darker center
- Itchy patches on the skin
- Bites arranged in lines or clusters
- Marks mostly on exposed areas, like the face, neck, arms, and hands
Some people may not react to these bites at all. Others might have allergic reactions that cause intense itching, blisters, or hives.
When to Get Medical Help
See your doctor if you develop serious allergic reactions or severe skin problems from bedbug bites.
Professional medical treatment may be necessary if your bites cause extreme itching, widespread rashes, or significant discomfort that doesn’t improve with home care.
Causes of Bedbugs
Hiding Places
Bedbugs typically gather near sleeping areas. They find many clever hiding spots, including:
- Mattresses and box springs
- Headboards and bed frames
- Clothing and bedding materials
- Luggage and storage boxes
These pests also hide in less obvious places like:
- Behind peeling wallpaper
- Under carpet edges near baseboards
- Inside seams of upholstered furniture
- Behind electrical outlet covers and light switch plates
Their flat bodies allow them to squeeze into spaces as thin as a credit card, making detection difficult.
Transmission Methods
Bedbugs move from place to place primarily as hitchhikers. They cling to:
- Personal belongings like clothing and bags
- Furniture when it is moved between locations
- Boxes and other household items
In multi-unit buildings such as apartments and hotels, bedbugs easily travel between rooms through wall voids, electrical conduits, and hallways. Their ability to survive months without feeding helps them spread effectively.
Cleanliness Factors
Contrary to popular belief, bedbugs infest both clean and dirty environments without preference. These insects are attracted to:
- Body heat
- Carbon dioxide (from breathing)
- Secure hiding spots
A spotless home offers just as many opportunities for bedbugs as an untidy one. The presence of bedbugs indicates an unfortunate encounter, not poor housekeeping practices.
Risk Factors
People are more likely to encounter bedbugs in locations with a high turnover of occupants, including:
- Apartment complexes
- College dormitories
- Homeless shelters
- Hotels and motels
- Cruise ships
- Public transportation (buses and trains)
- Refugee camps
These environments allow bedbugs to spread easily as they move from one person’s belongings to another.
Prevention
To prevent bedbugs from becoming a problem in your home:
- Wear protective clothing while sleeping. Pajamas that cover your arms and legs can reduce exposed skin and help prevent bites.
- Be cautious with secondhand items. Thoroughly inspect used mattresses, bedding, and upholstered furniture before bringing them home.
- Take precautions when traveling. Examine hotel mattress seams for signs of bedbug waste. Also, keep your luggage on elevated surfaces like tables or dressers instead of the floor.
