What do bed bug bites look like ?
Bed bug bites can vary in appearance from person to person, and their reaction to the bites can also differ. However, there are some common characteristics of bed bug bites to be aware of:
1. Red, itchy welts: Bed bug bites often appear as small, red, raised bumps on the skin. The key bed bug bite symptom to look for is a red, raised bump, similar in appearance to a spider or mosquito bite. But what sets bed bugs apart from other insects is that oftentimes, their bites will present in a line or cluster on one part or side of your body. This is the result of what’s called “probing.”
2. Swelling: The area around the bite may become swollen or inflamed, especially if the person has a strong allergic reaction.
3. Linear pattern: Bed bug bites may sometimes appear in a linear or zigzag pattern, as these pests tend to feed in a sequential manner while moving along the skin.
4. Delayed reaction: It’s important to note that some people may not have an immediate reaction to bed bug bites. It can take several days for symptoms to appear, making it challenging to identify the source of the bites.
- It’s worth mentioning that bed bug bites can resemble other insect bites or skin conditions, so it’s not always easy to determine if they are specifically caused by bed bugs. If you suspect bed bugs are the cause of the bites, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.