Among the most common household pests, bed bugs are the least harmful, as they do not transmit deadly diseases like mosquitoes nor destroy structures like termites do. However, as small as bed bugs are, making them the least noticeable pests, they can still cause health issues and potential damage to one’s home.
Let’s look into the health risks of bed bugs and what you can do to avoid them:
1. Effect on the Skin of Bed Bug Bites
You’ll notice small, red welts on your skin when you get bitten by a bed bug. These can get itchy and swollen.
2. Infection
Constant scratching of the area where a bed bug bit you can lead to open wounds, where germs and bacteria can enter and cause secondary skin infections. These include impetigo and cellulitis.
3. Allergic Reaction
After being bitten by a bed bug, some people may experience mild or severe allergic reactions. For those who are hypersensitive to insect bites and stings, getting bitten can lead to anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening.
4. Stress
A home infested by bed bugs can cause anxiety and frustration for those living in it. It is because of the rapid spread of pests around parts of the house, getting frequently bitten, and the fear of getting bitten, among others. Stress undeniably impacts our physical health, immune system, and mental health.
5. Sleep Deprivation
Having bed bugs at home can cause you to lose sleep. Apart from the mental strain of an infestation, the bites and scratching can keep you up at night. And just like being stressed, being sleep-deprived can be physically, mentally, and emotionally taxing.
How You Can Protect Your Home Against Bed Bugs
You can avoid the health risks of bed bugs by keeping your home pest-free. Some simple precautions include removing any clutter where they can hide and multiply and vacuuming frequently to remove any bed bugs that may have hitchhiked.
Once you start seeing signs of bed bugs in your space, work with a pest control company immediately for professional bed bug extermination. This is to prevent an infestation and further issues to your health and property.
Let Arrow Services, Inc. Help You Maintain a Pest-Free Home
Turn to us to take care of any pest problems you may have. We are dedicated to ensuring you live without worries from pests, including bed bugs, rodents, termites, cockroaches, fleas, mosquitoes, and moles. Arrow Services, Inc. is a family-owned business that proudly serves clients in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois.