How to identify bed bugs
Bed bugs are flat, reddish-brown, oval insects up to 4 to 5 mm long or the size of an apple seed. Swollen and reddish after a blood meal.
Behavior, Diet & Habits
Bed bugs only feed on blood. Under cool conditions, bed bugs have been able to survive up to a year without a meal. They prefer to be more active at night when the host is asleep.
Bed bugs are found in cracks and crevices, including mattress seams, sheets, furniture, behind baseboards, electrical outlet plates and picture frames. Often found in hotels, where they can travel from room to room and in visitors’ luggage or other personal belongings such as purses and briefcases.
THREAT AND DISEASES POSED BY BED BUGS
When considering bed bugs and disease, the prevalent medical position is they do carry disease organisms, but they are not known to transmit disease. While some sources claim that bed bugs are to blame for the spread of leprosy, Q-fever, oriental sores and brucellosis, these cases are poorly documented.
However, secondary infection may result if someone fails to keep the bites clean and disinfected, leading to swelling and bleeding of the bites. Infections are more likely to develop in children, those with suppressed immune systems and the elderly, especially those who are bedridden and unable to walk. Also, some people bitten by bed bugs have experienced allergic reactions that require medical attention, especially when exposed to numerous bites.
Treating a Bed Bug Bite on Your Own
Many times, a bite from a bed bug will not pose too much of a threat. However, you may experience a certain amount of discomfort, and there are steps you can take to alleviate some of the pain. The first thing you should do is thoroughly wash the area that has been bitten. You will want to stick with a mild soap and run water over the area. The important thing to keep in mind is that you do not want to rinse off the soap. By leaving it on, you should get some relief from any itchiness you feel.
If soap does not work to alleviate the itching, then you can try some home remedies. One of them is creating a paste out of water and baking soda. Apply the paste to the bite, and let it stay there for at least an hour. You can wash it off afterward, and the itching should be significantly reduced. You should also be able to get anti-itching cream over the counter at most pharmacies that can provide you with relief. If you are going to use creams, then make sure to follow the directions exactly.
How do you get bed bugs?
You can pick up bed bugs almost anywhere — offices, stores, hotels and gyms for starters. They’re great at hiding and have been known to hitchhike in luggage, personal belongings or even you. Once indoors, they can be very difficult to control without the help of an experienced pest specialist. You can reduce your chances of a costly bed bug infestation by catching them early.
Tips
- Remove all clutter from your home, which makes finding bed bugs easier.
- Wash and dry your bed linens on the hottest temperature permitted.
- Closely inspect any second-hand furniture before bringing it in your home.
- Inspect your home after moving, trips, service calls or overnight guests.
What Hicure Services Does
Bed bugs can multiply quickly, so early detection is critical to help prevent an even larger infestation.
Contact us to know more details about bed bug infestation and treatments.
