What are the signs of bedbug bites? - briefly
Bedbug bites manifest as tiny, red, raised welts that frequently occur in rows or clusters and are intensely itchy. They usually emerge a few days after contact and do not show a distinct puncture point.
What are the signs of bedbug bites? - in detail
Bed‑bug feeding results in distinct skin reactions that can be differentiated from other insect bites. The lesions typically appear within a few hours to several days after exposure and may persist for up to two weeks.
- Small, red papules ranging from 1 to 3 mm in diameter.
- Central punctum or tiny dark spot indicating the feeding site.
- Linear or clustered arrangement, often three to five bites in a row, reflecting the insect’s movement along the host.
- Intense itching that may lead to secondary excoriation.
- Swelling or raised welts (urticaria) in sensitive individuals.
- Delayed hypersensitivity responses, producing larger, erythematous patches after repeated exposure.
Additional diagnostic clues include the presence of live insects or shed exoskeletons in sleeping areas, nocturnal activity patterns, and reports of waking with unexplained skin irritation. Absence of a bite mark on exposed skin, such as hands or face, combined with lesions confined to concealed body parts (torso, hips, upper arms) further supports the identification of bed‑bug bites.