Identifying Bed Bug Bites

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When unexplainable bites appear, it makes sense to wonder if those bites are bed bug bites. The bed bug, cimex lectularius, is a very common pest that can leave painful itchy welts on the skin. When they get into a home, they can mean misery for an entire family. 

If you think you have bed bugs on your property, you need to act fast. So how can you tell whether those bites were caused by bed bugs? Thankfully, there are a number of characteristics that can help you figure this problem out.

The Signs of Bed Bug Bites

Most insects bite once. Bed bugs are not one of them. You may have heard their bites called “breakfast, lunch, and dinner bites.” This relates to the myth that bed bugs always bite in sets of three; in reality, they can bite any number of times. However, they do still have the distinctive habit of biting in clusters. 

Other signs of bed bug bites include:

• Small, red welts on your skin.
• There may be a scab at the center.
• These bites tend to be extremely itchy.
• Although rare, bed bug bites sometimes have pustules. This will make the center look yellowish or tan.
• Bed bug bites are usually on the neck, shoulders, arms, and upper body – or any body part that is exposed during sleep.
• Evidence of bed bug bites may take some time to appear – or may not appear at all.

Of course, the easiest way to tell if you have bed bug bites is to check your mattress for signs of bed bugs. You’re likely to find them clustered between your mattress and the bedframe or box spring. You may also find their dark red or black droppings.

Do Bed Bugs Cause Rashes?

Bed bug bites are often associated with a rash; their clusters of bites can cause skin irritation and inflammation that makes the entire area look like a rash. Other bug bites also cause rashes, though, so a rash is not definitive proof of bed bugs. The carpet beetle, for instance, can cause skin irritation that looks like bites, even though it doesn’t bite people.

Which Bug Bites Look Like Bed Bug Bites?

There are a few other common biting bugs that you might run into in Georgia. Knowing the difference between their bites can help you figure out if you’re dealing with a bed bug infestation or some other bug problem.

Bed Bug Bites vs. Flea Bites

The biggest difference between bed bug bites and flea bites is the amount of irritation. Flea bites itch and may be painful; bed bug bites may not even itch at all. Flea bites are most commonly grouped on the lower part of the body and around the ankles in random patterns. Bed bug bite clusters can appear anywhere on the body. While both bites can cause red bumps and itchiness, bed bug bites tend to be significantly larger. 

Bed bug bites may also be slower to heal than flea bites, but this varies from person to person. If fleas are bugging you (and your pets,) consider our flea extermination services. 

Bed Bug Bites vs. Mosquito Bites

Similarly to bed bug bites, mosquito bites can leave red itchy marks on your skin. Unlike bed bug bites, though, mosquito bites appear in isolated, random areas on the body. A bite from a mosquito will form a bump mere minutes afterward, and their bites can be felt immediately. Mosquito bites are distinctly larger than bed bug bites – especially for individuals who are allergic to them. Lastly, mosquito bites tend to heal much quicker than bed bug bites.

Mosquitoes are also more dangerous than bed bugs, as their bites can transmit disease. If you’re dealing with a mosquito problem, our mosquito control services can help.

How to Stop Bed Bug Bites

If you’re still not sure whether or not those bites are bed bug bites, reach out to us. The best way to deal with bugs of any kind is to have a pest professional help. We can help you figure out what bug is biting you and outline what pest control options and protective protocols you need.

Call Active Pest Control today for a free inspection and practical advice for your pest problem.