Characteristics of Bedbug Bites

Bedbugs, also called cimicidae, are blood-sucking parasites that can infest your home. Cimicidae got the nickname bedbugs because they are most likely to infest your mattress and bite you while you are sleeping. Learning how to spot bedbugs and identify their bites can help you know when you need to take measures to get rid of the pesky critters.

What A Bite Looks Like

• Bedbugs have a sharp beak that they use to penetrate the skin and suck the blood of the victim. Most people do not feel the bites because the pest will inject their saliva that acts as anesthetic. The bitten area swells and turns red. On its own, a bite would look similar to a mosquito or flea bite. Victims who are continuously bitten may develop a rash in that area that will itch.

Pattern Of Threes

• An important characteristic of bedbug bites that distinguishes them from other types of bites is that bites will appear in clusters of three. Often called "breakfast, lunch and dinner bites," a bedbug will not move far between feedings. Check for new bites every morning that follow this pattern.

Location

• Areas of your body that are exposed while you sleep are going to be the first places bedbugs target. Neck, hands and legs are the most vulnerable. If you sleep shirtless bedbugs will be attracted to your back. It is possible for bedbugs to venture underneath loose-fitting clothing to bite the arms and buttocks.

How Long Will A Bite Last?

• Typically a bite mark will last for two are three days. Some people, however, can have an allergic reaction to the saliva that a bedbug leaves when they bite. In those cases, people may experience a bedbug rash for one or two weeks. It is important to avoid itching a bedbug rash because it could lead to infection. Consider seeing your doctor if a bedbug rash becomes severe.