Bedbugs are small parasites that feed on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals. These wingless insects hide in cracks and crevices such as floorboards, underneath carpet, behind wallpaper and are often found infesting bed frames and mattresses. Bedbugs are nocturnal and are virtually undetectable. A few signs and symptoms; however, can indicate the presence of bedbugs. Even with positive bedbug symptoms, a professional exterminator may be needed to diagnose bedbug infestation.
Bites
MayoClinic.com reports that bedbug bites are difficult to distinguish from other types of bug bites. Bedbug bites generally occur on the upper body, such as your hands, arms, torso and face. Bites from bedbugs are red and may be arranged in a small cluster or line. Some people develop blisters or scabs where bitten or swelling around bites. Marks from bedbug bites may take up to 14 days to develop.
A person may have an allergic reaction to bedbug bites. Hives may form over bite areas. Itching also may occur, which is sometimes severe. Steroids or antihistamines may be prescribed by a medical professional for severe reactions to bedbug bites.
Waste
Bedbugs molt about five times in one year and leave their exoskeletons behind. A person may notice clusters of exoskeleton remains in the seams or folds of a mattress. Excrement may also be noticeable on sheets or a mattress. Bedbugs produce reddish-brown excrement that appears as tiny dots and may be liberally scattered across a mattress, with heavy infestation.
Smell
Bedbugs give off a sweet, musty, unpleasant odor. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that bedbugs commonly live within 8 feet of where humans sleep and that the odor may be more pronounced in proximity to where humans inhabit. Bedding or mattresses may take on this odor after long-term exposure to a bedbug infestation.
Insomnia
Some people may feel increased restlessness at night due to bedbug infestation. Bedbugs may cause insomnia, anxiety and discomfort at night, especially in people who suspect bedbug infestation, according to the CDC. Skin reactions to bedbug bites, such as itching, may cause sleep disruption as well.
