How Big Are Bed Bugs Bites?
WouterBedbug bites are small, red spots that don’t always have a center. Usually, the redness is accompanied by an itchy rash. These are not as severe as those from poison ivy or chicken pox, but they can still be uncomfortable. Minor bedbug bite reactions tend to go away within a week or two, although you should always contact a medical professional if you notice any blood-stained welts.
Bedbug bites are similar to those of mosquitoes. Both insects inject saliva into the wound, which causes an allergic reaction. Unlike mosquitoes, bedbugs feed every few days, and they typically last up to 10 minutes. During this time, the bed bug’s body swells to accommodate its meal. The bed bug’s abdomen consists of eleven segments, each of which expands during the feeding process.
Bedbugs feed on human blood. During their immature stages, these insects only need one bite. However, during the adult stage, they need blood to lay eggs. If they can’t find blood, they will move to another part of the body and look for another meal. This is why the size of bedbug bites is not necessarily a sign of how many bugs are feeding on the host.
The bites of bedbugs usually develop into red, swollen, and itchy welts. Some people may have an allergic reaction, and the welts can become secondary infections. These can be serious and may lead to scarring.
