Anyone who has gone through a bed bug infestation knows the emotional toll involved with getting the problem under control. Your bed is an intimate haven where you should feel safe, comforted, and not under attack.

In practical terms, though, it’s essential to understand that not everyone reacts to bed bug bites. Furthermore, there is no evidence that bed bugs can pass human pathogens from one person to another. So, while there is a true emotional toll in dealing with bed bugs, you may not feel the effects of their feeding.

Is Everyone Affected By Bed Bug Bites?

In a recent survey of people across the country affected by confirmed bed bug infestations, 70% stated they had experienced some sort of skin reaction from the bed bugs in their residence. This percentage held strong regardless of the intensity of the infestation. This means that whether their home contained only a small number of bed bugs or an uncontrolled infestation, just under three-fourths of people experienced a reaction.

This survey also found that people’s physiological response to bed bug bites was similar to their response when bit by mosquitoes. So, those who are particularly sensitive to mosquitoes may experience the same sensitivity with bed bugs. That’s why in cases like these, it’s best to hire bed bug removal professionals the soonest.

Interestingly, a couple of different studies found that there was a negative correlation between age and reaction to bed bug bites. That is, the older a respondent was, the less likely they were to state they had experienced a bite or skin reaction. This doesn’t necessarily mean that there were a bit less often, but that the reaction was less severe or noticeable.

What Are the Symptoms of Bed Bug Bites?

Bed bug bites are hard to differentiate from those of other pests, such as fleas or mosquitoes. The bites will typically form in a line or cluster, with each bite consisting of red, swollen areas that are darker in the middle.

Most often, these reactions appear on the bitten person’s arms or legs. However, the marks on the chest, back, neck, hands, feet, or face are all common. The reaction to bed bug bites is caused by their saliva. Bed bugs use their saliva as a numbing agent that makes it easier for them to feed upon a body without being noticed.

Some people may have an allergic reaction to bed bugs. This reaction usually presents itself through larger red areas and swelling that is painful to the touch. There is some evidence to support that increased levels of stress can contribute to an allergic response.

Unfortunately, bed bugs themselves can contribute to stress. In the survey mentioned above, those dealing with bed bug infestations mentioned feelings of anxiety, paranoia, anger, embarrassment, and depression. To reiterate, the emotional fallout from dealing with bed bugs is real.

When Should You See a Doctor?

There is no hard and fast rule when to see a doctor regarding your bed bug bites. However, it’s best to see your doctor any time you are concerned about your health. If you’re dealing with excess itchiness or pain, your doctor may be able to help reduce the symptoms.

You should also see your doctor if a bed bug infestation is leading to common emotional, mental, or psychological issues. They may be able to refer you to a specialist to help you work through these issues or prescribe you medication that makes it easier to manage these feelings.

How Can You Get Bed Bugs Under Control?

The quickest, most effective way to handle a bed bug infestation is to call Truly Nolen Canada. At Truly Nolen, we know the impact bed bugs can have on your life. Our expert technicians can inspect your home and craft a specific treatment plan to help remove the bed bugs from your home and get back to your normal way of life.