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Bedbugs are known as parasites that belong to a family of insects called “Cimicidae” that like to feed on human blood. They are very small and like to live in dry, hard to reach places such as beds and drawers. Bed bugs eggs can even be found in the seams of the fabric.
In the 1940s, the United States had successfully eradicated these pests with DDT. But now bedbugs are back because they are resistant to many of the pesticides that kill them. Another reason why there are bed bugs everywhere is that these insects have learned to travel from the “stop” to their unsuspecting host.
Some Facts About Bedbugs:
• They hit under sensory nerves so that people can’t feel them crawling on their skin
• They administer a type of anesthetic that relaxes the blood flow, allowing them to suck more freely
• Bed bug can live about a year without feeding
• Bed bugs will move from their hiding place once they feel disturbed
How to Identify a bed bug
Bedbugs can be hard to identify. They are small and devious, which means that it can be difficult to notice an infestation before it becomes a real problem. If you have a good overview, consider the following:
• Six legs: bugs crawl on six legs.
• Body Type: They also have round bodies that swell when slurping on human blood.
• Antennas: Bedbugs have antennas that better direct their senses.
• Visible to the eye: If you find a bed bug infestation, you can see it with the naked eye (unlike other pests like mites).
• Real Parasites: These spooky creepers survive and thrive by binding and sucking blood throughout the night
Are Bed bugs harmful to your health?
Although bed bugs have not been proven to transmit diseases through feeding activities, bed bugs can still pose a health risk. They can be responsible for health problems ranging from mild to very severe.
The most common health problem is the itching that often accompanies bug bites. Many people suffer from bumps or red patches on their skin a few days after a bed bug attack. In some cases, the reaction may take a week or two, and some people may not respond at all.
The bumps or dings are much like a mosquito bite but tend to stay with the person much longer, often two weeks or more. These bites can constantly irritate, and scratching is inevitable. This is where the danger starts.
Excessive scratches can lead to skin damage, possibly leading to infectious organisms, some of which are very dangerous. By taking reasonable precautions and controlling the urge you to scratch, you avoid more severe reactions, but if it is a sign of infection – such as persistent redness or other common indicators – you should consult a doctor for a review.
How do you know you have bed bug in your home?
If you notice small itchy bites on your body
• Bed bugs can leave small, irritating and inconsistent bites on your body. If you have found clusters of stings or bumps, especially if they are arranged in three straight lines, it may be helpful to look for bed bugs. However, this is not a sure sign. Some people show no signs of bug bites. “People can have bedbugs without knowing it because many people do not respond to bedbugs.
If you find dark spots on your sheets or pillowcases
• Bed bugs can leave clumps of their feces on sheets, and these clusters can help you to know if you have bed bugs. If you find small spots that rub when wiping with a damp cloth, this could be an indication of stool fecal matter. If you find it next to the seams of the mattress or box springs, you may have a bedbug problem.
If you find skin flakes on your hair or bed
• The skin flakes of bedbugs are small, brown and oval and they are one of the signs that you have bed bugs. If you find one of these small envelopes in your home, you may have bed bugs. However, do not be discouraged by the presence of bedbugs as they may even be found in the cleanest houses. “Anyone can catch bed bugs at home, they are not a sign of impurity, and bed bugs only need blood to survive.
How can you prevent bed bugs from coming to your home?
- Check used furniture, beds, and sofas for bed bug infestation before taking them home.
- Use protective sleeves that surround the mattresses, box springs and pillowcases to prevent many hiding places.
- Reduce the clutter in your home to avoid bedbug hiding places.
- Be careful when using a common laundry. Transported items should be washed in plastic bags (in case of active infestation use a new bag for the return journey). Remove directly from the dryer and fold clothing at home. (A high-temperature heated dryer can kill bed bugs.)
- Remember to buy a portable heating chamber to treat objects that may contain bed bugs.
How to eliminate bed bug if you have them at home?
Identify all affected areas
• It is much easier and cheaper to treat a small infestation than a fat one. However, smaller infestations can be harder to detect. Look for bed bugs or consult a specialist to get an inspection. Some inspectors use specially trained dogs to track bed bugs by smell.
Contain the infestation
• If you know that you have bed bugs, you must contain them to get rid of them. With your vacuum cleaner, you can catch bed bugs quickly and easily. Vacuum all possible hiding places.
Prepare the treatment of bedbugs
• Get rid of bed bug hiding. Collect books, magazines, clothes and everything on your floor and under your bed. Throw everything you can. Do not move objects from an affected room to a clean room. They could spread insects. Seal all open areas. Insert the loose wallpaper. Caulk cracks in furniture and skirting boards. Secure the open sockets with adhesive tape. Finally, keep your bed at least 6 inches from the wall so that bed bugs cannot climb.
Kill bed bugs
Heat
• These insects are easily killed at high heat (46 ° C) or intense cold below 0 ° C (32 ° F). A pressurized steamer is ideal to help get rid of bed bugs.
Non-chemical and chemical treatments
• Insecticides can help rid your house of bedbugs. Look for products that are registered with the EPA and labeled specifically for “Bedbugs.” Diatomaceous is an earth-based powder that is highly effective in killing bed bugs and other insects by ingestion/dehydration within 48 hours indoors or outdoors.
Final Thoughts
As the saying goes, “Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite”
-Shameka Renee
Results may vary. Information and statements made are for general purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Her Own Health does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Her Own Health are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
