When it comes to bed bugs, it doesn’t take long for the problem to grow out of control. By the time you notice the bites they leave behind, the population has already dug in and grown. Only by spotting the early signs and acting quickly can you hope to get rid of a bed bug problem. Here are the things you should look out for and the reasons why only professionals can provide thorough elimination of bed bugs.
What To Know About Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are parasites that suck the blood from larger animals and people. While they are incredibly small, they can be seen with the naked eye. They are a bit smaller than an apple seed, are reddish-brown, and are easier to spot on light-colored fabrics and surfaces. Unlike other pests, bed bugs don’t travel very far on their own. Rather than expend their energy, bed bugs cling to items and people to get around, essentially hitchhiking from one location to the next. Once they’ve found a place to nest and feed, bed bugs quickly begin laying eggs and adding to their numbers. It’s because of their ability to easily transmit from one location to the next that bed bugs can be such common invaders of homes and businesses.
Bites Are A Sure Sign Of Bed Bugs
Unfortunately, it’s incredibly common for people to not realize they have a bed bug infestation until they’ve already fallen prey to their feeding. While these bugs aren’t known to transmit diseases through their bites, the itchy welts that bed bugs leave on the skin are annoying and persistent.
Here are some traits about the bites themselves and why they are no fun to have:
- Appearance: While bed bug bites don’t swell as much as a spider bite or wasp sting, they certainly can add up the longer a population is around to feed. The small, red welts are known to itch incessantly.
- Shape: The circular, pock-marked bites are often found nearby, in lines or clusters.
- Risks: Unlike ticks and fleas, bed bugs aren’t known to transmit harmful diseases or bacteria. However, frequent scratching at bites can increase the risk of infection and some people have been known to suffer from anemia due to frequent and repeated bites.
Other Signs Of A Bed Bug Problem
Even though you’re unlikely to avoid their bites before you notice bed bugs, there are some ways to spot the signs of their presence.
Here are some indicators of bed bug activity:
- Stains: Not only can bleeding punctures in the skin leave red stains in bedding and furniture as a result of bed bug feedings, but the parasites themselves can also cause yellow stains from their droppings and eggs.
- Eggs: Speaking of eggs, bed bugs typically lay theirs out of sight but close to a feeding source. When inspecting items, look for tiny eggs.
- Skin sheds: As bed bugs grow, they grow out of their exoskeletons and must shed them and leave them behind. You may spot these clear, yellowish leftovers.
Professional Elimination Is The Only Solution
Once a bed bug infestation hits, it’s almost impossible to get rid of it with household or store-bought solutions. The longer a population sticks around, the more it grows, and the more bites you will suffer. Rather than waste time on potentially ineffective and dangerous chemicals or solutions, turn instead to the proven methods of experts.
At The Original Bugman Pest Elimination, Inc., we know how to get rid of bed bugs. Let us get started on an inspection of your property today so we can help you sleep easy knowing that bed bugs are no longer a problem. Don’t become a pincushion for parasitic pests like bed bugs, call the pros today. Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control services.
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