Waking up with bug bites and red bumps on your body is not a good way to start the morning. Neither is finding tiny blood spots on your sheets. However, if this sounds like something that is happening to you then it is very likely your home has become infested by bed bugs. Even if you haven’t experienced bed bugs for yourself, it is important that you are up to par on what to look for when it comes to this disgusting pest. Keeping that in mind, here is some crucial information you should know about bed bugs.

Blood is the only nutrition source for bed bugs. Adult females need blood to breed and produce eggs. People dealing with a bed bug infestation will find bites on areas of the body that are exposed during sleep—such as hands, neck, face, shoulders, legs, and arms.

Bed bugs do not transmit diseases to humans, however, their bites are itchy and can become inflamed and blistered. Their bites also can provoke a rash that, if persistent, requires professional medical attention to treat. More severe symptoms may develop a few days after you are first bitten. It is important to note that not everyone reacts to bed bug bites the same way so beware of any new red bumps/bites on your body.

If you have been hearing more about this disgusting pest lately it is because they are more prevalent than ever before. In fact, the population of bedbugs in the United States has grown approximately 500 percent according to Congress’ Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite Act of 2009. Infestations have been reported at summer camps, in movie theaters, retail stores, and even landmarks like the Empire State Building. The symptoms mentioned above are one of the main indicators that you may be dealing with a bed bug infestation.

One identifier of bed bug bites is they are usually in a line pattern. Bites will also develop in areas where you typically do not see mosquito bites, such as the face. If you are noticing these bites, be on the lookout for adult bed bugs. Adult bed bugs are similar in size and shape to an apple seed or lentil. They are flat, oval, wingless and about a quarter-inch long. Bed bugs may congregate in areas such as the seams of the mattress, around the box spring and headboard, and under the dust ruffle. Also look for other evidence of bed bugs in these areas, such as their fecal matter, which has the same appearance as ground black pepper.

If you suspect your home has been infiltrated by this disgusting pest, contact a licensed a professional such as Superior Spray Service Inc. as soon as possible. Do not attempt treating bed bugs as a do-it-yourself project. They are often difficult to find, and even harder to eliminate. Bed bugs can go as long as a year without feeding and females can lay 400 eggs over the course of their lifetime. Failing to receive professional treatment for a bed bug infestation only will lead to a bigger infestation in the future.

While we hope that you never experience a bed bug infestation, if you do, you can trust the professionals at Superior Spray Service Inc. to help. Our pest control technicians are well-trained and pursue continuing education in accordance Florida state laws. If you encounter bed bugs or spot evidence of them, such as bites or fecal matter, please contact us immediately! (833) 682-0700 Superior Spray Service Inc. is licensed to kill bed bugs and any other disgusting pest you encounter.