If you’ve ever experienced bed bug bites, you know how frustrating and uncomfortable they can be. But what happens when your bed bug bites start getting worse? In this article, we’ll explore some possible reasons why your bed bug bites are worsening and what you can do about it.
Bed bugs are tiny parasites that feed on human blood during the night while they are asleep. These insects tend to hide in the cracks and crevices of furniture or bedding, making them difficult to spot. Bed bug bites may cause an allergic reaction, resulting in red, itchy welts on the skin. If you have been suffering from bed bug bites, you may have noticed that they seem to be getting worse over time. This article aims to explore the possible reasons behind this worsening condition and suggest ways to deal with the problem.
Understanding Bed Bug Bites
Before we dive into why your bed bug bites may be getting worse, let’s first understand what bed bug bites are and how they affect the body. Bed bug bites typically appear as small, red, itchy welts on the skin. They can occur anywhere on the body but are often found in clusters on areas that are exposed during sleep, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs.
Bed bug bites are not known to transmit any diseases, but they can cause intense itching and discomfort, which can lead to secondary infections if scratched excessively. In some cases, people may also develop an allergic reaction to bed bug bites, which can result in more severe symptoms such as swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing.
How Do Bed Bugs Bite?
Bed bugs are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and other animals. They typically feed at night, when their hosts are sleeping, and use their elongated mouthparts to pierce the skin and suck blood. Bed bugs are attracted to the carbon dioxide and warmth that humans emit, which is why they are often found in beds and other sleeping areas.
Possible Reasons Why Bed Bug Bites Are Getting Worse
Now that we understand what bed bug bites are, let’s explore some possible reasons why they may be getting worse.
Now that we understand what bed bug bites are, let’s explore some possible reasons why they may be getting worse.
Increased Infestation
The most obvious reason why bed bug bites may be getting worse is that the infestation has increased. Bed bugs reproduce quickly and can easily spread to other areas of the home, so it’s important to take immediate action at the first sign of an infestation.
If you’ve noticed an increase in the number of bed bug bites you’re experiencing, it’s likely that the infestation has become more severe. In this case, it’s important to call a professional exterminator to eliminate the bed bugs and prevent further bites.
Allergic Reaction
As mentioned earlier, some people may develop an allergic reaction to bed bug bites. If you’ve been bitten by bed bugs before and are now experiencing more severe symptoms, it’s possible that you may have developed an allergy to their bites.
An allergic reaction to bed bug bites can cause symptoms such as swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect that you may be experiencing an allergic reaction, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
Secondary Infection
Bed bug bites can be extremely itchy, and scratching them can break the skin and lead to a secondary infection. If you’ve been scratching your bed bug bites excessively, it’s possible that you may have developed a secondary infection, which can cause the bites to become more painful and inflamed.
If you suspect that you may have a secondary infection, it’s important to see a doctor to get the appropriate treatment.
Residual Bites
Even after a bed bug infestation has been eliminated, it’s possible to experience residual bites. Residual bites are bites that occur after the bed bugs have been eliminated but are still present due to lingering bed bug debris or dead bed bugs.
If you’re still experiencing bed bug bites after the infestation has been eliminated, it’s possible that you’re experiencing residual bites. In this case, it’s important to thoroughly clean and vacuum your home to remove any remaining bed bug debris.
Reinfestation
Finally, it’s possible to experience worsening bed bug bites if your home becomes reinfested with bed bugs. Bed bugs can easily hitchhike into your home on clothing, luggage, and other items, so it’s important to take precautions to prevent a reinfestation.
If you’ve noticed an increase in bed bug bites after previously eliminating an infestation, it’s possible that your home has become reinfested. In this case, it’s important to call a professional exterminator to eliminate the bed bugs once again.
What Can You Do About worsening bed bug bites?
If you’re experiencing worsening bed bug bites, there are several steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms and prevent further bites.
Use Calamine Lotion
Calamine lotion can help soothe the itching and discomfort caused by bed bug bites. Simply apply the lotion to the affected area as needed.
Take Antihistamines
Antihistamines can help reduce itching and swelling caused by bed bug bites. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as Benadryl can be effective for mild to moderate symptoms.
See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing more severe symptoms such as swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may prescribe stronger medications to alleviate the symptoms.
Call a Professional Exterminator
If you suspect that your home has a bed bug infestation, it’s important to call a professional exterminator to eliminate the bed bugs and prevent further bites.
Take Preventative Measures
To prevent a reinfestation of bed bugs, it’s important to take preventative measures such as regularly vacuuming your home, inspecting hotel rooms for bed bugs before staying, and avoiding purchasing used furniture without thoroughly inspecting it first.
FAQs for the topic: why are my bed bug bites getting worse
What causes bed bug bites to worsen over time?
Bed bug bites can get worse over time due to several reasons such as a delayed allergic reaction, secondary infection, or excessive scratching. Delayed allergic reactions occur when your body takes time to respond to the allergen and can result in worse symptoms than before. Secondary infections can occur if the bites are scratched and bacteria from under the nails enter the wounds. Excessive scratching can also cause the bites to become worse as it can irritate the skin and cause inflammation.
How can I prevent bed bug bites from worsening?
To prevent bed bug bites from worsening, avoid scratching the affected area as this can break the skin and introduce infections. Cleanse the area with soap and water and apply ice to reduce inflammation. Use over-the-counter antihistamines to relieve itching and redness. If home remedies do not work, consult a doctor for prescription treatments.
Can bed bug bites lead to serious health problems?
While bed bug bites are not known to cause serious health problems, excessive scratching can lead to skin infections. In rare cases, people may experience more severe reactions such as anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips or tongue, seek medical attention immediately.
Can bed bug bites worsen the longer they are left untreated?
Yes, bed bug bites can worsen if left untreated. Delayed allergic reactions can occur and cause worse symptoms than before. Scratching the bites can increase the risk of developing a secondary infection, which can lead to more severe symptoms. It is best to treat bed bug bites as soon as possible to prevent them from getting worse.
Can bed bug bites be a sign of bed bug infestation?
Bed bug bites can be a sign of bed bug infestation, especially if you are waking up to bites every morning. Other signs of a bed bug infestation include bloodstains on your sheets, small dark spots on your bedding (bed bug feces), and a sweet musty smell in your room. If you suspect a bed bug infestation, contact a pest control professional to inspect and treat your home.
