This fact sheet is for information only and is not intended for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for consultation. If you have any questions about the disease described
above or think that you may have an infection, consult with your healthcare provider.
Because bed bug bites affect everyone differently, some people may have no reaction and will not develop bite
marks or other visible signs of being bitten. Other people may be allergic to the bed bugs and can react
adversely to the bites. These allergic symptoms can include enlarged bite marks, painful swelling at the bite site
and on rare occasions, anaphylaxis.
It may be hard to tell if you have been bitten by a bed bug unless you find the bed bugs or signs of infestation.
When bed bugs bite they inject an anesthetic and an anticoagulant that prevents a person from realizing they are
being bitten. Most people do not realize they have been bitten until the bite mark appears days afterwards. The
bite marks are similar to that of a mosquito or a flea. It may be a slightly swollen and a red area that may itch
and be irritating. Bite marks may be in a straight line or be random. Other symptoms of bites may include
insomnia, anxiety, and skin problems that arise from the profuse scratching of the bites.
4. How soon do symptoms of bed bugs appear after exposure?
Bite marks may take as long as 14 days to develop in some people.
5. How are bed bugs spread?
Because bed bugs can be found in homes and a variety of public places, they can easily be transported from
place to place by people. They can hide in the seams of luggage, overnight bags, bedding, and in the folds of
clothing. They can also be transported in furniture. Most people do not realize they are transporting bed bugs as
they travel from location to location, infecting areas as they go. Bed bugs are experts at hiding, can stay hidden
for long periods of time, and can stay alive even without a blood meal.
6. How are bed bug bites diagnosed?
Although most people do not realize they have been bitten by a bed bug until bite marks appear (which can be
as long as 14 days after the bite), finding a bite mark is the easiest way to identify a bed bug infestation. A bed
bug infestation is apparent by noticing black or brown spots (which is from their fecal waste) on surfaces.
Sometimes the eggs, egg shells, and exoskeletons of the bed bug can be found in their hiding places.
7. Are there long-term complications of a bed bug infestation?
Bed bugs should not be considered a medical or public health hazard. Bed bugs are not known to spread
disease. They can be an annoyance because of their itching and loss of sleep. Itching which can lead to
excessive scratching can increase the chance of a secondary skin infection. Although bed bugs are not
considered to be dangerous, an allergic reaction to several bites may need medical attention.
8. How are bed bug bites and infestations treated?
Bed bug bites usually do not pose a serious health or medical threat. The best way to treat a bite is to avoid
scratching the area and apply antiseptic creams or lotions and take an antihistamine. Minimal treatment and
good hygiene to prevent itching and secondary infections are usually sufficient treatment for most cases of bed
bug bites. If you suspect you are having an allergic reaction to bed bug bites contact your physician. In severe
cases, topical steroid creams, antihistamines, topical antiseptics, or antibiotics may need to be given in the case
of a secondary infection.