Fact vs. Myths: Bed Bugs In Washington D.C.
01/20/2022
Bed bugs are small parasitic pests that often resemble an apple seed to the naked eye. They have a wingless, oval-shaped body with a reddish-brown ...
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When a bite or sting is discovered and you're not sure of the origin, it's common to assume the worst. Could I have bed bugs? However, reactions to bug bites can vary and are often confused with other bug bites and stings. Ask yourself these questions to help you figure out what is bugging you.
Did you notice any pain when you were bitten?
If the answer to this question is yes, it probably wasn’t a bed bug. Bed bug saliva contains anesthetic features that make their bites virtually unnoticeable.
Where are most of the bites located?
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Feet and Ankles: It may be fleas as they usually live in carpets and under furniture.
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Head and Neck: It could be head lice which nest in human hair.
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Groin or Armpits: the culprits may be ticks as they enjoy warm, moist, and hidden areas.
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If the bites are all over and seem to mostly be in locations that your pajamas don’t cover you may have bed bugs.
Do the bites seem to be grouped in a straight line or zig-zag pattern?
If your answer is yes, you are likely dealing with bed bugs. Bed bugs tend to leave bites in clusters of about 3-5 bites per grouping. This is because when a bed bug bites you, it moves around to find a suitable place to feed. For some people, this leaves behind a trail or group of marks on the skin.
Do the bites develop blisters?
If you have developed blisters from your bites they are not from bed bugs, but they may be from blister beetles or fire ant bites. Blister beetles don’t bite but release an irritating chemical when crushed causing blisters to form. Fire ant bites are painful and will be immediately noticed, whereas bed bug bites that can, and usually do, go unnoticed.
Does there appear to be a bulls-eye pattern around the bite?
If so, you need to see a doctor immediately. This is likely the bite from a tick carrying Lyme disease. Lyme disease can be fatal if left untreated and its signs include fever, headaches, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. But, not all people show symptoms, so it's important to see a physician for a proper diagnosis.
If you are discovering multiple bites and are unsure where they are coming from it is important that you contact the pest professionals at American Pest. The technicians and entomologist have been trained in bug identification and know all the tricks to stop an infestation. Our mosquito and tick control program provides clients with extra protection from those pests that carry Lyme disease, Zika, and more. You can also get more information here about our residential services.
