Can Bed Bugs Cause Allergies?
WouterIt’s common for people to wonder if bed bugs cause allergies. Some people are prone to severe allergic reactions called anaphylaxis, while others suffer from a milder allergy to the bed bug saliva. People who experience a severe allergic reaction to bed bug saliva should seek medical care immediately.
Bed bugs produce a chemical called histamine, which can cause allergic reactions in people. It causes itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. In some people, histamine can cause allergic reactions, resulting in asthma attacks. Those who are prone to allergic reactions should check their bedding for bed bugs before getting rid of them.
People with sensitive skin or those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for bed bug allergies. These insects can also transmit parasites to pets, including dogs and cats. Pet owners should avoid bed bugs in their homes. Even if bed bugs do not bite humans, their droppings can spread the parasites to other parts of the house. This can increase the level of histamine in the home. Some studies show that bed bug homes have up to 20 times the amount of histamine than non-infested homes.
While bedbug bites typically heal after a week, if you think you have a bedbug allergy, visit your doctor immediately. A doctor can prescribe powerful medications to combat the symptoms.
