What Do Bed Bug Bites Look Like? Pictures, Size, Shape and Identification

Understanding Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed on human blood. They are reddish-brown in color, wingless, and get their name because they are often found in beds, mattresses and other areas where people sleep. Bed bugs are stealthy and mainly active at night when they come out to feed.

Bed Bug Bites

When bed bugs bite, they use their sharp piercing mouthparts to inject a small amount of saliva into the skin. This saliva contains anesthetic, anticoagulant agents, and digestive enzymes. People may not feel the actual bite, but saliva left behind can cause irritation and itchy welts on the skin.

Appearance of Bites

Bed bug bites typically appear as small, raised and red bumps on exposed areas of skin. They often occur in linear groups or clusters of 3-5 bites, called "breakfast, lunch and dinner." Bites may look like mosquito or flea bites at first but tend to become larger, itchier and last longer.

What Do Bed Bug Bites Look Like?

Here are the common characteristics of bed bug bites:

Size

Individual bites measure 2 to 5 mm across, about the size of a pencil eraser. They tend to be larger and raised compared to mosquito bites.

Shape

The bumps are round and dome-shaped if recent. After scratching, they may become extra swollen and develop a pus-filled crater in the middle.

Color

When first bitten, the bite mark looks like a small red bump. Over time, it darkens and may turn purple, brown or black as the blood trapped under skin breaks down.

Grouping Pattern

Bed bug bites often occur in a linear or clustered pattern, as they feed along a vein or artery. Seeing 3 or more bites in a line is very characteristic of bed bugs.

Number of Bites

How many bites appear depends on the size of the infestation, how long one is exposed, and individual attraction to the bed bugs scent. From just a few to over 100 bites can appear.

Location on Body

Bed bugs tend to feed on exposed skin that is easily accessible when you are sleeping. Common bite sites include arms, shoulders, neck, face, hands and legs.

Sensation

Although painless at first, bed bug bites become very itchy, causing the urge to scratch. They may also burn or feel sore. The itchiness can last for over a week in some cases.

Differences Between Bed Bug Bites and Other Insect Bites

Bites from bed bugs can resemble other insect bites. Heres how to tell them apart:

Mosquito Bites

• Appear as small, puffy white bumps.
• Usually do not occur in clusters or lines.
• Sting and itch instantly.
• Swelling goes down in 1-2 days.

Flea Bites

• Tiny dark red spots with light halo around.
• Often occur around ankles and feet.
• Intensely itchy with immediate stinging.
• Bumps clear within 1-2 weeks.

Scabies

• Tiny pimple-like rash between fingers, wrists, elbows.
• Burrows may be visible on skin.
• Intense itching, worse at night.
• Persists for weeks to months.

Spider Bites

• Often two puncture marks visible from fangs.
• Center of bite mark blisters or forms an ulcer.
• May cause pain, swelling in lymph nodes.
• Can progress to necrosis; medical emergency.

Complications of Bed Bug Bites

Although bed bugs are not known to transmit disease, they can cause other complications through their bites, including:

Allergic Reactions

Some people may develop allergic reactions to the anesthetic in bed bug saliva. Reactions can range from mild itching and swelling to severe blistering, hives and anaphylaxis.

Skin Infections

Excessive scratching can break the skin and allow bacteria to enter, leading to impetigo, cellulitis or folliculitis. The redness, swelling and warmth indicate possible skin infection.

Anemia

With very large infestations, bed bugs can feed often and take enough blood to cause anemia or low iron levels, especially in children and the elderly.

Insomnia and Anxiety

Some people experience insomnia, unease and anxiety about being bitten, seeing bed bugs, and the itching. This sleep loss and stress takes a physical and mental toll.

Social Embarrassment

Some feel embarrassed or ashamed about having bed bugs, avoid social situations, and isolate themselves due to stigma. Counseling may help overcome anxiety about bed bugs.

Treating Bed Bug Bites

To help get relief from uncomfortable bed bug bites:

• Wash with soap and water to clean bites and prevent infection.
• Apply antibiotic cream to any broken skin or signs of infection.
• Use an anti-itch cream with hydrocortisone or antihistamines.
• Take oral antihistamines to reduce swelling and itching.
• Apply a cool compress to alleviate itching and swelling.
• Don't scratch bites to avoid skin breakage and infection.
• See a doctor if you have signs of severe allergic reaction.

Eliminating the bed bug infestation itself is key to stopping the biting and getting relief.

When to Seek Medical Care

See a doctor for bed bug bites if you experience:

• Signs of skin infection like oozing pus, red streaking, swollen lymph nodes.
• Shortness of breath, wheezing or facial swelling signaling allergic reaction.
• Prolonged itching or inability to stop scratching.
• Trouble sleeping due to itching that interferes with daily life.
• Signs of severe stress or anxiety related to bed bugs.
• Extensive biting leading to anemia from blood loss.

Getting appropriate medical treatment when needed and following preventive measures can help manage complications of bed bug bites.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.