Information about bedbugs

We haven't seen that much of this in the ED. I see a lot of scabies in our emergency department but this rash looks very different.

Here are some photos of what the rash looks like: 

 

 Bed bugs (this list was sent to me at work, I didn't write it but I don't know the source)

• are small rusty red colored oval shaped flat bodied wingless insects with antennae and small eyes
• avoid lighted environments (stay in their hiding places until it is dark)
• typically not found on clothing or people, unless severe hygiene problems exist
• feeds on the blood of mammals (humans included). After they have fed, their bodies swell and become a brighter red color
• typically the bite is painless but can produce welts on the skin (no red spot in the center of the welts like flea bites have)
• are a nuisance, but do not transmit disease. They are know to cause allergic reactions from their saliva in sensitive people.
• live about 10 months and can survive for weeks to months without feeding
•  typically are transported from an infested area to non-infested areas by having them cling to clothing or by crawling into luggage, or coming in with bedding and furniture that is then brought into the non-infested area

If you suspect you have bedbugs you can take benadryl for itching. If you have severe redness or swelling then you should see a health care provider because you may have a secondary infection.

Call an exterminator to help you get rid of them. They are very tricky to kill.

Share |
Subscribe in a reader