BEDBUGS

Overview & Facts

Bedbugs are little, wingless bugs that feed only on the blood of warm-blooded creatures. People are the favored hosts for these species.

Hatchlings are tiny and look like poppy seeds. The adults have a smooth texture and an oval shape; the size may increase after feeding. They are called bedbugs due to their favored surroundings in human homes, such as sofas, bed sleeping cushions, garments, and furniture. They additionally like to stay in the dark.

Bites can be seen rapidly however may take up to 14 days to be noticeable.

Types & Symptoms

There are two types of bedbugs that have the ability to affect humans.

Cimex lectularius
Cimex hemipterus

Bedbugs have typical smells, like that of coriander. The most common sign that there are bedbugs in the house is when people have bites when they wake up from sleep. If this happens, inspect the rooms for bedbugs and indications of bedbug movement.

The bugs and eggs may be present in the bed sheets and mattresses, or even in wallpapers, dressers, drawers and clothes. The eggs will look like poppy seeds that are tiny and pale-colored. They may have brown or rust colored droppings that stain cloth and pillows.

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

The doctor may get your medical history and will do a physical exam to take a look at the bites on your skin.

TREATMENT

Treatment centers around relieving symptoms and includes:

Topical creams, for example, cortisone, to alleviate itching
Antibiotics for skin infections
Corticosteroids for allergies
Antihistamines to relieve itchiness

Most bites heal within 1 to two weeks.

BEDBUGS

Overview & Facts

Types & Symptoms

Diagnosis & Medications

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