Are Bed Bugs Bad For Baby?
WouterBedbugs are small parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Their body length ranges from 1mm to 7mm. They need blood to grow, so they feed frequently in order to survive. When they are still nymphs, they look whitish or straw-colored. When they feed, their body cavity and digestive tract fill with blood. Consequently, the bedbug will seek blood to feed on again.
Once they reach adulthood, bedbugs live for 24 to 48 days. They are able to lay more eggs after reaching adulthood. The life cycle of a bed bug has five stages. During the first two or three instars, bed bugs shed their skins. The shed skins can help you identify the location of a bedbug’s hiding place. Adult bedbugs require a blood meal at least once or twice per week to survive and reproduce.
Once bitten, bedbugs can cause itching and secondary skin infections. Treatment can include a cool compress or anti-itch cream. In severe cases, you may have to call a pest control service to rid your home of bedbugs. You can search for a local company in the phone book or online. If you suspect your home is infested with bedbugs, it is important to check cribs, mattresses, car seats, clothing, and furniture for signs of bedbugs.
If your baby develops bedbug bites, visit a pediatrician to get a prescription for an anti-itch cream or lotion. The anti-itch cream or lotion can relieve the itching and help your baby get rid of the bugs. If the bites are too severe, you may also have to treat them with oral or topical corticosteroids. If you notice an infection, antibiotics are also recommended.
