How Bed Bugs Bite
WouterIf you are wondering how bed bugs bite, it is important to understand their feeding behavior. They typically bite every four to five days, but sometimes can go months between feedings. However, their behavior can vary from person to person, and their bites can cause different reactions in different people. For example, some people may have no symptoms, and others may experience bites that appear when they first wake up. For the most part, treating bites with rubbing alcohol or anti-itch ointments can help alleviate the symptoms.
To feed, bedbugs pierce the skin in several places. The “bite” then causes the insect to inject saliva. The saliva contains an anesthetic and an anticoagulant. The anesthetic prevents the host from feeling the injection, while the anticoagulant thins the blood at the site of the bite, making it easier for the bug to feed. Once the bed bug has enough blood to feed, the bite will engorge, or become full.
Despite the fact that the majority of people are unaware of how bed bugs bite, they can take action to treat the infestation. In some cases, simple treatment methods may work, but in most cases, a professional will be needed. Treatment methods for bedbugs can include applying hydrocortisone creams and anti histamines. In addition to using topical solutions, you can also try applying oils that reduce inflammation. These include rosehip oil and tea tree oil. Another treatment that has been shown to work well is applying a gel called “Fenistil”.
