Can Bed Bugs Kill Me?
Bedbugs are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They can grow from one to seven millimeters in length and are reddish brown in color. Bedbugs are not known to carry any disease, but can be a nuisance in a home. They often enter a home undetected because of their small size. They do not make nests, but instead live in small groups in hidden places such as bed frames and headboards. They can easily spread to other rooms if the infestation becomes severe.
When bedbugs bite a person, they cause severe itching, which may cause a strong allergic reaction. While a mild allergic reaction may not cause any noticeable symptoms, severe allergic reactions can result in a trip to the hospital. In severe cases, doctors may prescribe a prescription for an antihistamine. In some cases, a patient may also develop anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening and can cause swelling of the throat and difficulty breathing.
Bedbugs can also cause psychological damage. Some people may have nightmares about the bug bites, which can result in panic attacks and other forms of anxiety. They may even experience depression or a loss of sleep.