Signs That You Have Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are small parasitic insects that feed on human blood. They are notorious for hiding in mattresses, bedding, furniture, and other places where people sleep. Bed bugs can cause red, itchy bites, as well as other problems such as allergic reactions, skin infections, and psychological distress.
If you have bed bugs in your home, you need to act fast to get rid of them. Bed bugs can multiply quickly and spread to other rooms or even other buildings. They are also resistant to many common pesticides, so you need professional help to eliminate them.
But how can you tell if you have bed bugs in the first place? Here are some of the major warning signs.
You See Live Bed Bugs or Their Shells
The most obvious sign of bed bugs is seeing them with your own eyes. Bed bugs are apple seed–sized and have oval, flat bodies. They are usually brown, but they turn reddish after feeding on blood.
Bed bugs tend to hide in cracks and crevices near their food source. Thus, they are often in beds.
You can use a flashlight to inspect your mattress, box spring, headboard, bed frame, and other objects around your bed for any signs of movement. You can also look for shed skins, which are translucent and look like empty shells.
You Find Bed Bug Droppings or Blood Stains
Another sign of bed bugs is finding their droppings or blood stains on your bedding or mattress. Bed bug droppings are small, black, or brown dots that have a musty smell and smear when touched. They are usually found in clusters where the bed bugs are hiding.
Blood stains are caused by bed bugs being crushed while they are feeding or after they have fed. They are reddish-brown spots that may soak into the fabric. You may also find blood stains on your pajamas or skin.
You Have Bed Bug Bites on Your Skin
One of the most common signs of bed bugs is having bites on your skin. Bed bug bites are usually red, itchy, and inflamed spots that often appear in a linear or zigzag pattern. They can occur anywhere on your body, but they are more likely to be found on exposed areas such as your face, neck, arms, and hands.
Some people may not have any visible symptoms at all, while others may have severe allergic reactions or skin infections.
Contact a company like Good News Pest Solutions for more information.