How do bedbugs bite humans? - briefly
Bedbugs use a slender proboscis to pierce the skin, inject saliva that contains anticoagulants and anesthetic compounds, and then withdraw blood over several minutes. The initial puncture is painless, but the saliva triggers a localized inflammatory reaction that causes redness, swelling, and itching.
How do bedbugs bite humans? - in detail
Bedbugs (Cimex lectularius) locate a host by detecting heat, carbon‑dioxide and skin odors. Upon contact, the insect climbs onto exposed skin and prepares to feed.
The feeding apparatus consists of a elongated proboscis formed from modified mandibles and maxillae. The tip contains two slender stylets that pierce the epidermis, while a third canal delivers saliva into the wound.
Feeding proceeds through the following stages:
- Penetration – stylets create a microscopic channel through the stratum corneum into the dermal capillary network.
- Salivation – the insect injects a cocktail of anticoagulants, anesthetics and anti‑inflammatory compounds. These agents prevent blood clotting, mask the bite’s sensation and reduce immediate immune response.
- Blood ingestion – a fourth canal draws host blood upward by capillary action into the insect’s foregut. Blood flow continues for 5–10 minutes, after which the bug disengages and retreats to its harbor.
Saliva components include apyrase, which hydrolyzes ADP to inhibit platelet aggregation, and a family of protease inhibitors that suppress local inflammation. The anesthetic effect often delays the host’s awareness of the bite, allowing the insect to complete feeding undisturbed.
Post‑feeding, the puncture site typically manifests as a slightly raised, erythematous macule. In sensitized individuals, delayed hypersensitivity may produce pruritic wheals 24–48 hours later. Repeated exposures can lead to persistent skin lesions and secondary infections if scratching occurs.
Bedbugs do not inject pathogens; the primary health concern derives from allergic reactions and the psychological impact of infestation. Effective control relies on early detection, thorough cleaning of harborages and targeted insecticidal treatment.