Bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases to humans, but that doesn't mean they're harmless. Their bites and the stress of living with an infestation can have a real impact on your health and wellbeing. If you’ve spotted signs of bed bugs at home or in your business, contact our bed bug exterminators for advice on the best treatment methods.
While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, their bites and presence in homes can lead to several health issues, both physical and psychological.
Bed bug bites often appear as small, red, and itchy welts, usually in clusters or lines on exposed skin.
Reactions to bed bug bites can vary, with some individuals experiencing severe itching, swelling, or even an allergic reaction that requires medical attention. In rare cases, excessive scratching of these bites can lead to secondary skin infections.
If you notice bites that are becoming increasingly red, warm, or swollen, or if the skin around them starts to look infected, it's worth speaking with a healthcare professional. Most bites heal on their own with basic care, but it's always better to get checked out if you're unsure.
The physical effects of bed bug bites are only part of the picture. For many people, the psychological impact of an infestation is just as significant, if not more so.
Research published in the BMJ Open found that people living with bed bug infestations were nearly five times more likely to experience sleep disturbances and anxiety symptoms compared to those without an infestation. A separate study published in the American Journal of Medicine analyzed 135 accounts from people who had experienced bed bug infestations and found that 81% reported moderate to severe psychological and emotional effects, including nightmares, hypervigilance, and avoidance behaviors.
It's not hard to understand why. Knowing that insects are feeding on you while you sleep makes it difficult to rest. That lack of sleep compounds anxiety, which makes sleep even harder. Some people continue to feel the effects long after the infestation has been treated.
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If you're struggling with the stress of a bed bug problem, you're not alone, and getting the infestation dealt with properly is the most important first step. The most important thing is to act quickly. The longer an infestation goes untreated, the harder it becomes to control.
Here are a few steps to take right away:
Most importantly, contact your local professionals. Our team can inspect your home, confirm the infestation, and recommend the right treatment. We'll also advise you on steps to take after treatment to reduce the risk of a recurrence.
Yes. Bed bugs can move through wall voids, electrical outlets, and shared spaces. In multi-unit buildings or hotels, an infestation in one room can spread to neighboring units if it isn't treated promptly.
Clean the bite area with soap and water, and try to avoid scratching. While it’s uncommon to get infections from bed bug bites, allergic reactions can happen. Over-the-counter antihistamines or topical creams may help with itching. If you do develop signs of an allergic reaction or infection, contact a healthcare professional.