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Flea Bites vs. Bedbug Bites: How to Tell the Difference

Written by Resurchify | Updated on: April 20, 2022

Flea Bites vs. Bedbug Bites: How to Tell the Difference

Insect bites are quite an important area of discussion. A bite of a small insect could pose so many risk factors. But, it is very difficult to detect the differences between insect bites and their symptoms. Most of these factors are very similar among varieties of insects. Bed bugs and fleas are insects that could be put in this category. Two of these insects have one thing in common. They feed on the blood of animals and even humans. But, the effects caused by their bite differ. It is important to know about the differences and treat the infection accordingly. So, let us stop getting confused and get into the nitty-gritties of flea bites vs bedbug bites.

Flea Bites vs. Bedbug Bites: How Does a Bed Bug and its Bite Appear to Be? 

One of the most important aspects of flea bites vs bedbug bites is to know about each of them separately. Else, the idea becomes a muddled one. 

Bed bugs are generally insects. But, these are parasitic and nocturnal. These bugs would bite you when you are asleep at night. The reason is that they are drawn to the carbon-di-oxide during your exhalation and your body heat. Now, do not get scared. These insects are very small, and you can avoid their bite by using bed bug repellents. But, in case you get bitten, do not fret. This article will provide you with some amazing points. These will help you detect and treat the problem of these bugs. 

One needs to know what a bed bug looks like. These insects can be divided into two categories: Cimex Lectularius and Cimex hemipterus. Both of these species are responsible for the bite. The colour of these bugs ranges from brown to reddish-brown. Their structure is oval, flat, and devoid of hind wings. The wings present in the front appear to be pad-like parts. The adult bugs grow approximately up to 5mm. These details would be enough for you to detect the irritable bugs. 

The bites of the bed bugs do not always appear to be like triangle bites. So, one cannot simply assert being bitten by a bed bug just because the bite looks like a triangle. Symptoms are to be closely observed. Diagnosis could also be helpful in these cases. The bedbugs are unique. They are not like leeches that would attach to you even after their feed. Once the bedbug finishes its meal of blood, it crawls away to its secluded crack to digest it.

These bed bugs are not very harmful if the bite is treated. At times, treatment may not be even needed. But, if the skin shows certain symptoms like rashes, redness, itchiness, and ultimately blisters and fever, it is a serious thing to consider. Thus, Flea bites vs bedbug bites need a great deal of notice.

Flea Bites Vs Bedbug Bites: Hiding Spots of Bedbugs

The hiding spots of bedbugs should be noted down to avoid them:

  • Bed bugs like dark places where there is not enough light. Mattresses, carpets, seams of couches and chairs, and curtains are their favourites. The bedbugs hide near the spots that are closer to their feeding areas. But, they can crawl a good distance if such an area is not available. Vacating a particular area or disposing of the infested material is of no use. A disinfectant spray for bugs would help in these cases. 
  • Bed bugs are now frequent everywhere. The US states are very popular for bedbug infestations. 
  • The flat structure of bed bugs also helps them to get into any tiny hole or crack that remains undetected by humans. You can detect the infested area by the stains of bed bug excretion. The telltale smell produced by the bugs can also help you detect their stay. 
  • Bed bugs can occur in any place which is frequently visited by people or animals. Any place that is not secluded is the place feeding for bed bugs. These places could be schools, hotels, hospitals, etc. So, stay alert.
  • Bedbug infestation is unrelated to cleanliness. Bedbugs primarily depend on blood for their survival. So, any place, whether it is clean or dirty, where its host is available is its dwelling area. 
  •  Wood attracts bedbugs more than plastic. So, they are found near the places where wooden furniture is placed. 

Flea Bites Vs Bedbug Bites: Symptoms to Help You Understand Bedbug Bites

One of the significant things to consider about flea bites vs bed bug bites is the difference in their symptoms. These symptoms are not the same for every person. It differs. But, let's list down some general symptoms that the bite of a bed bug is likely to cause. Stay tuned to know about it!

First, the bite may look like a red spot after two days. This may vary from person to person. You might have this red spot while the other may not. Also, many times the reaction takes place after a long time which makes one doubt if they were bitten or not. When one is bitten by bedbugs, the pain is not felt. This is one of the reasons why these bites remain unnoticed and untreated for a long time.

Secondly, one of the most important things to note about flea bites vs bed bug bites is that flea bites generally occur near the ankles. Bed bugs are indiscriminate. They bite any part of the skin that remains exposed. Now, these areas could be your neck, arms, shoulders, or knees. 

Thirdly, these bites are pretty small and are characterized by a red and raised area. This is the reason why bedbug bites are mistaken for mosquito bites. 

Fourthly, bedbug bites might be present like a zip. It is recommended to not scratch the affected area. Scratching would only amplify the pain.

Flea Bites Vs Bedbug Bites: What Risk Can a Bedbug Bite Pose?

Yes, bed bug bites are small. But, at times, the reactions it causes are pretty big! These risky reactions need to be taken into account. This is a flea bite vs bedbug bites must know. Getting to know these risk factors would help in treating them. So, why wait? Let us delve into the information. The common problems one can face due to a bedbug bite are:

  • Allergic Reactions- bedbug bite may not be very serious for some people. But, this doesn't mean it will not be serious for anybody! Hypersensitive hosts may have pretty big reactions to a small bite of these bugs. Anaphylactic shock is one of these reactions that lead to issues like chest tightness, wheezing, and irritation in the throat. Multiple blistery hives accompanied by fever are also a serious reaction to bedbug bites. 
  • Infection Due to Bedbug Bite- The bedbug bites are very irritable and itchy. Undoubtedly, people always have an urge to scratch the affected area due to the constant irritation it causes. But, scratching the area does not prove to be helpful. It aggravates the problem even more. 

If you scratch the area repeatedly, a wound is ought to form. Open wounds are a prime source of bacterial attack. This may lead to serious infections related to the skin. Cellulitis, boils, and Impetigo is such infections that one might face due to the persistence of this wound. So, if such a wound occurs, it is best to treat it as soon as possible. 

  • Cause of Stress- Now, this is interesting. How can a bedbug bite lead to stress? Yes, it can, without doubt, lead to extreme stress. Imagine yourself living in an area that is infested by these irritating bugs. The thought of it alone gives one stress. The constant anxiety that is produced to keep the house clean to prevent infections and diseases by bedbugs is the crux of problems. 

Poverty is closely related to a prolonged infestation of bugs due to the unavailability of the best resources to remove these insects. People might call up bedbug removal agents. They make use of modern equipment to get your place free of bed bugs. 

Flea Bites Vs Bedbug Bites: Treatment for these bites

One of the things to consider in this article relating to flea bites vs bedbug bites is the treatment to prevent ill causes by either of these bites. Treating bedbug bites is mandatory. You can never tell when these bites will start to show symptoms of infections that would eventually lead to unwanted diseases. So, let us follow the guidelines for these treatments that would help you get rid of the issues caused by bedbug bites. 

  • Topical steroids can be useful for treating these bites. Steroids for treating bedbug bites would be a good option because this medium usually responds well to the allergy. But, if you suffer from allergies due to the application of these steroids, it would be better to consult a doctor regarding it. Triamcinolone topical or Corticosteroids are a great choice of steroids for treating bedbug bites. These medications are pretty helpful in providing relief to allergic spots. Hydrocortisone and prednisone are steroids that FDA approves. These are also used for treating serious issues like certain types of cancer. 
  • Now, if steroids do not work for you, do not stress. There are several oral medications as well. Oral antihistamines would be beneficial in this case. The doctor may also advise certain antibiotics. But, do not forget to consult a doctor before using any of these medications. A doctor's prescription relating to these issues is highly recommendable. It should not be ignored.
  • A topical anti-itch ointment can be used in the initial stages to lessen inflammation and redness in the affected spot. Natural Riches Neem Oil for Skin Care is a trusted bedbug treating oil. You may ask for the doctor's approval before using it. 
  • Certain things are to be considered to kick out bedbugs. Taking the assistance of a pest control service, laundering the bedsheets and sofa, and frequently vacuuming floors are some cleansing tips one might follow. 

Flea Bites Vs Bedbug Bites: What Does a Flea and Flea Bite Appear to Be?

A flea is a tiny insect. Its size does not differ much from bedbugs. They grow approximately up to 2.5 mm. Their colour ranges from yellow to dark brown. These are oval and have a hard shell-like body. Rats are a frequent carrier of fleas for they travel every space in a house in search of food. It is advisable to use a bug disinfectant to get rid of these insects. Just like bedbugs, the fleas have their dwelling areas in carpets and couches. 

Let us come to yet another important part of flea bites vs bedbug bites. Fleas are blood-feeding insects too. These two have a flat structure like the bedbugs and can survive in cracked places. Fleas prefer damp and cool places where light does not reach. These are not much different from bedbugs. But, fleas do not just crawl. They can jump from one place to the other. It is important to know what the bite of a flea looks like to distinguish it from bedbugs. These bites look like a cluster. But, the bumps caused by these bites are much smaller than mosquito bites. So, do not mistake them for mosquito bites if you see dark red spots in a cluster around your knees or groin. 

Continual flea bite may lead to blood loss that would ultimately result in anemia. So, get in touch with pest control agencies. They are the best option to consider. Using anti-flea shampoos for your pets would also help greatly. You need to frequently vacuum the carpets at your home and dispose of any flea-infested material. The precautions for avoiding fleas are just the same as the bedbugs. They attach themselves to their host and feed on their blood. They pierce their sharp proboscis into the skin to suck in the blood. Once these insects bite you, their saliva is injected into your blood flow. Untreated conditions might be fatal often. So, consulting a specialized doctor at the earliest is recommended.

Now, as this saliva reaches the bloodstream, your system produces a chemical called Histamine. This chemical is required to remove this allergen. But, the reaction of histamine on the affected area often leads to serious sorts of swelling, ultimately leading to infections. 

Flea Bites Vs Bedbug Bites: Hiding spots of fleas

Getting to know the hiding areas of fleas would help us to make the application of the disinfectants the right way. 

  • A unique feature about fleas is that they select varied conditions for their stay. It depends on the cycle of their life. If you make use of a microscope, you will be able to see a lot of flea eggs on your pet's fur. Now, fleas get hold of the furniture and bedding at your home because your pets bring them in. So, before letting in any of your pets at your home, make sure to give them a good wash with an anti-flea shampoo. Otherwise, it would be pretty difficult to detect these tiny bloodsuckers when they get into your dwelling.
  • Generally, you will be able to detect fleas in dark and dusty places. Their place of stay is quite similar to the bugs. The motive of the flea bites vs bedbug bites article is to bring out these subtle differences amidst the wide similarities. Flea larvae frequent these spots. These are present only on the carpet fibre and floors of houses.
  • A thing to note about adult fleas is that they take their refuge in the furs of animals like cats and dogs. These fleas are different from Pulex irritans. The Pulex irritans are found on non-furry hosts like humans or pigs. But, the effects of their bites are not different. If you keep these things in mind, it will be easier to understand the nature of fleas, helping you to use the disinfectants in the correct spots. 
  • You will find fleas in arm areas. In the summertime, flea infestation is popular. 

Flea Bites Vs Bedbug Bites: Symptoms to help you detect Flea Bites

One needs to know about the symptoms caused by fleabites. This will help you to detect fleabite at the earliest and seek treatment from a doctor. This becomes an important topic of discussion in flea bites vs bedbug bites. The symptoms may differ from person to person. But, here, I will highlight some general symptoms that one ought to face due to a flea bite. 

  • It is important to note that flea bites are often evident as a chain of three bites. These are group-like bites. So, be sure that it is none other than a flea bite whenever you see one. 
  • Secondly, if this sort of bite is seen in the lower part of your body, it is undoubtedly a flea bite. Normally, Fleas bite near the spot of the waist, feet, or any skin folds. But, there is no such rule that fleas will only bite in the lower part of the body. If fleas remain uncontrolled, their infestation might increase, and they can attach to any part of your skin. 
  • Just like bedbug bites, flea bites also lead to irritation and extreme itching. It is not advisable to scratch the area of the flea bite. This might lead the sore to open up. An open wound is the entry point of bacteria. This might result in several infections. So, please do not scratch either of these bites. It would be dangerous!

Flea Bites Vs Bedbug Bites: What Risk Can a Flea Bite Pose? 

Yes, flea bites have their share of risk factors, just like bedbugs. These may be small bites but have great reactions. 

  • If you scratch the area affected by a flea bite, then it would lead to a blister. An open blister would lead to the entry of bacteria. Bacterial entry is the crux of all infections.
  • Infestation can also occur on the skin due to flea bites. A well-known infestation is tungiasis. This is an infection caused due to a specific flea known as Tunga penetrans. Its name is true to its work. These fleas penetrate its sharp proboscis, specifically in the lower areas of your body like the feet or ankles and suck on your blood. After a few weeks, these fleas die. But, their bite exposes one to infections. So, it is greatly advisable to show the symptoms caused by these bites to a specialized doctor. 
  • If fleas continue to feed on your blood without any notice. It would lead to severe blood loss. People suffering from poverty are the worst victims of fleas. This is because they are not able to afford the needed types of equipment to get rid of the fleas. 

Flea Bites Vs Bedbug Bites: Treatment

This is an important segment in flea bites vs bedbug bites. One always needs to consider the right treatment for these bites. The correct treatment would lead to good results. 

  • Firstly, the affected area is to be cleaned. After the application of soap water to clean the affected part, one needs to treat it. It is advisable to use topical anti-itch ointments. 
  • An interesting fact is that one can make use of oatmeal to get rid of the irritation caused by these bites. 
  • Taking the help of an antihistamine might also give a sense of relief to hypersensitive people who suffer from allergies caused by flea bites. 
  • Keeping the dwelling place clean by continual use of disinfectants should always be an important consideration. 
  • Lastly, consult a doctor! Nothing can be better than seeking help from a specialized doctor and vet for your pets. They would help in an effective diagnosis and treatment. 

Takeaway

Now that you know about the differences and similarities between flea bites and bedbug bites, it will be a lot easy for you to detect them and avoid them biting you. The article's main purpose on flea bites vs bedbug bites was to help you understand the consequences, symptoms, and treatments for these bites. One should not make the mistake of treating these bits as mere mosquito bites. The appearance of these bites is much denser than that. Yes, taking the help of anti-itching ointments does the work. But, if the affected area shows serious symptoms like the appearance of blisters, medical help is required. 

Any information found here does not constitute medical advice. If you face any health problems, it is advisable to visit a doctor. The information in this article should not be considered a substitute for medical guidance.

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Resurchify
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