Can Bed Bugs Make You Break Out in Hives?
WouterThe bites from bed bugs are usually mild and only cause irritation for a few days. However, the condition can turn more serious and leave you with keloid scarring and other skin reactions. Luckily, there are ways to prevent these uncomfortable symptoms. The first thing you need to do is find out if you have been bitten by bed bugs.
If you are bitten by a bed bug, you will experience red, itchy welts that may look like hives. Typically, these are small, red bumps with a central punctum. The spots can also appear in clusters or lines. Some people may also experience larger patches of red, swollen skin. These welts can develop into secondary infections, which will require medical treatment.
If you have hives, it’s important to get them diagnosed as soon as possible. Bed bug bites are not contagious, and they will go away after a couple of weeks. However, if you do develop hives after bedbug bites, you should visit an allergist. An allergist can perform a skin prick test to see if you have an allergy to bedbugs.
Bedbugs are small, reddish brown insects that feed on human blood. They live in dark, dry areas and come out to feed at dawn. Unlike fleas, bedbugs don’t fly and instead rely on animals to get from place to place. Bedbugs can enter your home by hitching a ride on luggage or secondhand furniture. They can also travel from a hotel or building to apartment.
