Is It Fleas Or Bed Bugs?
WouterA small red dot on your skin can be many things. Fleas and bed bugs are two of the most common causes of these red marks. These bugs are known to cause allergic reactions, especially in kids and those with sensitive skin. Fortunately, fleas and bed bugs do not transmit disease to humans, but you should avoid scratching the marks until they become inflamed or painful.
When you suspect an infestation, it is wise to clean the area thoroughly. If you can’t get rid of the problem yourself, you can contact a pest control service, such as Terminix. Their professionals will be able to help you get rid of the fleas and bed bugs from your home.
Fleas are small reddish brown oval-shaped bugs that live within the skin of humans and animals. These insects are more likely to inhabit the piping on a mattress or bed frame. Unlike bed bugs, they don’t jump or fly. Their eggs will hatch in 30 to 75 days, depending on the environment. However, they can live for up to a year without feeding.
It is not always possible to identify which one of these pests you have. Depending on the severity of the infestation, you can use a combination of the two. The first step is to inspect your bed, furniture, and bedding. Look for oval brown spots that look like a penny, or even a tiny bug on a wall. If the infestation is widespread, you may even find fleas during the day. Another method of determining if you have a bedbug infestation is to inspect your white socks. These tiny bugs are usually very small and translucent, and the second is to observe if they are scratched. If they are scratched, they may turn into a blister. You should also look for clusters of red dots, which are a sign of multiple bedbug bites.
