With 1 in 5 American homes reporting bed bug infestations each year these alarming critters are on the rise.1 To see the most up to date top bed bug treatments available this year start an online search now.
So What Exactly Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are reddish-brown in color, oval-shaped, and about the size of an apple seed.2 Bed bugs are nocturnal creatures that hide during the day in cracks and crevices in furniture, walls, and bedding. They are often found in hotels, apartments, and homes, and can quickly spread from one location to another. While bed bugs are not known to transmit disease, their bites can cause itching, swelling, and even secondary infections.
What Health Issues Can Bed Bugs Cause?
- Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions. The most common physical health effect of bed bugs is skin irritation.3 Bed bug bites are painless but can cause itching, redness, and swelling. In some people, the bites can lead to an allergic reaction, which may cause hives, blisters, or difficulty breathing.
- Insomnia and Mental Health Issues. Bed bugs can also cause psychological health effects. The presence of bed bugs in the bedroom can cause anxiety, insomnia, and other sleep disorders. Studies have also shown that bed bug infestations can lead to psychological distress, including depression, stress, and anxiety.
- Secondary Infections. Scratching bed bug bites can lead to secondary infections, such as impetigo, lymphangitis, and cellulitis. These infections can cause additional skin irritation, pain, and swelling, and may require medical treatment.
- Anemia. In rare cases, bed bug infestations can lead to anemia, especially in people who are already at risk for the condition. Bed bugs feed on blood, and severe infestations can cause significant blood loss over time.
How To Prevent Bed Bugs In The First Place
- Mattress encasements are a great way to prevent bed bugs from infesting your bed. These encasements are designed to cover your mattress and box spring, trapping any bed bugs inside. Additionally, mattress encasements are easy to clean and can be removed and washed regularly.
- Essential oils are an excellent natural remedy for bed bugs. Some of the most effective essential oils include lavender, tea tree, peppermint, and eucalyptus oil. These oils can be mixed with water and sprayed onto furniture and bedding to repel bed bugs. Additionally, you can add a few drops of these oils to your laundry to kill any bed bugs that may be hiding in your clothes.
- Vacuuming is an effective way to remove bed bugs from furniture, bedding, and carpets. However, it is important to use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, as bed bugs and their eggs can easily pass through regular vacuum filters. Additionally, be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately after vacuuming to prevent bed bugs from escaping.
Which Bed Bug Treatments Work Best?
- Chemical Treatments. Chemical treatments are the most effective way to kill bed bugs. These treatments can be done by a professional exterminator or using over-the-counter insecticides. The most common insecticides used to kill bed bugs are pyrethrins and pyrethroids. These chemicals work by attacking the bed bug’s nervous system, causing paralysis and death. However, it is important to use these chemicals safely, as they can be harmful to humans and pets. Always follow the instructions carefully and wear protective clothing when using chemical treatments.
- Heat Treatments. As mentioned earlier, heat treatments are an effective way to kill bed bugs. Heat treatments can be done using steam cleaners, heaters, or specialized equipment that can raise the temperature of the infested area to above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is important to hire a professional to perform heat treatments, as they require specialized equipment and expertise.
- Cold Treatments. Bed bugs can also be killed using cold treatments. These treatments work by exposing the bed bugs to temperatures below freezing. However, cold treatments can be difficult to perform, as they require specialized equipment and expertise.
- Vacuuming and Steam Cleaning. Vacuuming and steam cleaning are effective ways to remove bed bugs and their eggs from furniture, bedding, and carpets. However, these treatments are not always effective in killing all the bed bugs, and they may need to be combined with other treatments for best results.
See Best Bed Bug Treatments Now
Bed bugs are a common problem that can be prevented and treated using natural remedies and chemical treatments. It is important to take preventive measures to avoid infestations, such as inspecting second-hand furniture and keeping your home clean and clutter-free. If you do find yourself with a bed bug infestation, there are several treatment options available which take in your personal situation. To see the most up to date top bed bug treatments available this year start an online search now.
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