What Do Bed Bug Bites Look Like?
WouterIf you suspect you have bedbugs, it is important to know what to look for. Bites usually appear red, although they can be purple on darker skin. They may itch and cause bruising. They are usually not life threatening but should be treated immediately. A topical steroid may be required for intensely itchy bites. If you are unsure of what to look for, contact your doctor or a local council for advice. Bedbugs can be difficult to eliminate and are resistant to some insecticides.
Adult bedbugs have flat oval bodies that are about 3/16 of an inch long. Their newly hatched counterparts are tan-colored, semi-transparent, and about the size of a poppy seed. The bites of bed bugs can be irritating and itchy. Bedbugs are most active between the hours of midnight and 5 am.
The bites of bedbugs can be hard to distinguish from those of a flea or mosquito. Bedbugs will sometimes appear in a cluster of three to four. In rare cases, the bites will appear on a single spot, but the physical reaction can vary. Some people experience no symptoms at all, while others can experience severe and debilitating symptoms.
If you suspect that you have bedbugs, the first thing to do is wash any clothing you wear. If possible, wear pajamas. While bedbugs don’t like to hide under clothing, they can hide in unused items. You should also inspect used clothing before bringing it home. Also, if you’re staying in a hotel, inspect the seams of the mattress for bedbug excrement.
