Bed Bug Bite
Everyone is worried about bed bugs. We get call after call reporting bed bugs. Often, the caller has not seen the insect, but has discovered a bite on an arm or leg. The question is, is the bite really from a bed bug or is it a mite, mosquito, chigger or something else?
Although bed bugs are becoming more common in the United States, our infestations do not compare to some poorer nations where rural regions report bed bugs found in thirty-seven percent of children’s beds. Put up those numbers here and you are sure to get congressional action. By the way, something else may cause our congress to act on bed bugs. There is speculation that bed bug bites may be the vector for hepatitis B. As of now, we voice our shock about the living conditions of all those poor people suffering with bed bugs, but attach a disease or two to the mix and tell people that everybody is susceptible, and watch the mountain of legislative bills come out of our state capitals and Washington.
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About six out of ten people show no signs from bed bug bites. A puncture site is present, but no swelling or redness. Others showing reactions will often have bites lined up in groups of three accompanied by reddened, irregular, elevated patches, severe itching or blisters. The bite is painless and is usually discovered well after the fact. Using highly developed mouth parts, their elongated peak easily pierces the skin.
The wheals, or red marks, last only a few days, although some bites result in blisters and even loss of tissue. The use of an ice pack is recommended to reduce swelling. More intense pain can be alleviated with pain-killing medication.
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Keep in mind that during the warmer months many insects are active blood feeders including mites, ticks, chiggers and mosquitoes. Spiders don’t feed on human blood, but they can leave welts if you happen to be sharing your bed and roll over on it. Do yourself a favor and get a positive identification before you start spending tons on money on bed bug treatments.