Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, including humans. These nocturnal creatures are known for “sucking” blood and leaving characteristic bite marks. They are considered a public health nuisance due to the reactions they can cause.
How Bed Bugs Feed
Bed bugs feed by piercing the skin of their host to draw blood. They possess specialized mouthparts, known as a proboscis, which functions like a straw. During feeding, the bed bug injects saliva into the host. This saliva contains an anesthetic, which numbs the bite area, and an anticoagulant, which keeps the blood flowing smoothly.
Feeding occurs at night when humans are in their deepest sleep, often between midnight and 5 AM. A single feeding session lasts about 5 to 10 minutes until the bed bug is full. After obtaining their blood meal, they detach and retreat to nearby hiding spots to digest. Bed bugs do not feed every night and can survive for weeks or months without a blood meal, though they seek blood every five to ten days.
Identifying Bed Bug Bites
Bed bug bites appear as small, red, itchy welts on the skin. Their appearance varies among individuals; some show no reaction, while others develop more pronounced marks. Bites are often observed in distinct patterns, such as a line, zigzag, or cluster, sometimes called “breakfast, lunch, and dinner” due to multiple feeding attempts. Common locations include exposed skin areas like the face, neck, arms, and hands, as bed bugs bite areas not covered by clothing during sleep.
It can be difficult to distinguish bed bug bites from those of other insects like mosquitoes or fleas, as symptoms such as redness and itching are shared. Mosquito bites are more random and isolated, whereas flea bites often target the lower body. Bed bug bites can also appear as fluid-filled blisters or hives. The bites may not be immediately noticeable and can take hours to days to appear after the initial bite.
Potential Health Concerns
While bed bug bites are primarily an annoyance, they can lead to health concerns beyond the immediate skin reaction. Allergic reactions to bed bug saliva can range from localized redness and intense itching to more severe responses like widespread hives, significant swelling, or, in rare instances, anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. Constant itching can lead to sleep disturbances and discomfort.
Scratching the bites excessively can break the skin barrier, increasing the likelihood of secondary bacterial infections. These infections, such as impetigo or cellulitis, can result from bacteria entering open wounds. Beyond physical symptoms, bed bug infestations can have a psychological impact. Individuals may experience anxiety, stress, sleep deprivation, and, in some cases, symptoms resembling depression due to the persistent nature of an infestation. Bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases to humans.