Why do bedbugs bite certain people? - briefly
Bedbugs are drawn to hosts that release stronger cues—greater carbon‑dioxide output, higher skin temperature, and specific odor compounds—making those individuals easier to locate and feed on. Genetic factors, blood‑type differences, and variations in skin microbiota can amplify these signals, causing certain people to be bitten more frequently.
Why do bedbugs bite certain people? - in detail
Bedbugs locate a host primarily through heat, carbon‑dioxide exhalation, and volatile skin compounds. Individuals who emit higher levels of these cues become more detectable, leading to a greater frequency of bites.
Key biological variables influencing susceptibility:
- Blood type – type O individuals often produce more attractive odorants for hematophagous insects.
- Skin microbiome – specific bacterial colonies generate volatile fatty acids that enhance host appeal.
- Body temperature – elevated skin temperature creates a stronger thermal gradient for the insects to follow.
- Carbon‑dioxide output – higher metabolic rates increase CO₂ emission, a primary attractant.
- Sweat composition – greater concentrations of lactic acid, ammonia, and urea amplify chemical signals.
- Genetic factors – variations in olfactory receptor genes affect the profile of emitted kairomones.
Reaction intensity also contributes to perceived selectivity. Some people develop pronounced inflammatory responses, producing visible welts that draw attention, while others experience mild or no symptoms despite being bitten. Immune system sensitivity, previous exposure, and individual thresholds for histamine release determine the magnitude of the reaction.
Environmental and behavioral aspects further modify risk:
- Clothing material – synthetic fabrics retain heat and moisture, enhancing attractiveness.
- Sleeping posture – positions that expose more surface area increase exposure to probing insects.
- Proximity to infestations – occupants of heavily infested dwellings encounter higher encounter rates regardless of personal traits.
In summary, a combination of physiological emissions, immune response, and situational factors creates a spectrum of vulnerability. People who emit stronger thermal and chemical cues, possess certain blood types or skin microbiota, and exhibit heightened allergic reactions are more likely to receive frequent bites.