Is it Time to Call an Exterminator? Signs and Symptoms of Bed Bug Bites
Ever wonder where bed bugs got their name? An experienced exterminator knows all too well. Bed bugs typically live inside your bed and only come out at night. You may have picked them up on your clothing, travel bag, or that piece of used furniture you bought at a yard sale.
Depending on your infestation, you may never even see the little bugs. You will, however, see the bites they leave behind. These bites are often the first sign of a bed bug infestation and something you can identify before getting pest control help. See the below tips to help you confirm if you are dealing with bed bugs at your home.
1. Clusters
As most bug bites look quite similar, it’s often hard to determine whether your bites came from bed bugs, fleas or another insect. If you notice small or large clusters of bites grouped together, they most likely came from bed bugs. Bed bugs are small in size and will often bite you several times in the same spot. These spots are usually areas of the skin that you don’t cover at night such as your lower legs and arms.
2. Color
Experts at pest control in Las Vegas will generally tell you that bed bug bites can be white or red. The color often varies based on how long ago the bug bit your skin. If you woke up in the middle of the night to an intense itchy sensation, the bites will likely be bright red or pink. Those who sleep through the night may notice pale pink bite marks or marks that are white in color. If you keep scratching your skin, you can tear open the bites, which will cause some blood to appear on the surface of your skin.
3. Constant Itching
The most common sign of a bed bug bite is a constant itchy feeling. This feeling can occur immediately after the bite or take a few hours to start. Some compare it to the feeling of a mosquito bite because few things will soothe or calm the itch. The feeling can worsen over time as more of the bugs bite you.
How to Treat Bed Bug Bites:
- Disinfect the bites by washing with mild soap and water. Avoid soaps with fragrances.
- Apply a corticosteroid cream after the area is clean.
- Avoid scratching the area.
- Contact your primary physician if systems persist.
When to Call Pest Control
Bed bugs are incredibly hard to get rid of once they are in your home. Even if DIY solutions seem to work, they may not rid the pests from your living quarters. Las Vegas pest specialists can help you identify your bug bites and remove those bugs.
Buddies Exterminating is Licensed and Insured in Clark County. We service residential, commercial, and industrial site pest control. Call us at 702-878-3998 to schedule an appointment to rid your home of bed bugs.
See our pest control reviews to see what past clients are saying about Buddies.
Updated 5/25/21
