Define Bedbug
Bedbugs are small, parasitic bugs that are active at night and survive off the blood of humans and animals. The bites of bedbugs produce the inflammation and other certain symptoms of the infestation.
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Appearance
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Bedbugs are very small--typically less than .2 inches long, according to the Mayo Clinic. The parasites are a reddish-brown color and have six legs.
Types of Symptoms
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Symptoms of bedbugs include the appearance of red welts as large as 8 inches in diameter, itching, blisters, smaller pus-filled sacs and skin rashes that resemble hives.
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Sources
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Bedbugs travel on animals, inside your clothing and within luggage when you travel. With limits on some pesticides like DDT, there are few things that kill bedbugs, making infestations of the parasite more common than in previous decades.
Risks
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Some bedbugs carry infectious diseases like Hepatitis B or Chagas' disease. There is also a risk of developing serious allergic reactions to bedbugs, including shock.
Treatment
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Topical cream and oral antihistamines alleviate the itching caused by bedbugs. For some severe infections, an antibiotic medication may be needed.
Clean-Up
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Any linens or clothing that has come in contact with bedbugs must either be frozen for 24 hours or washed in very hot water. Your home will need to be vacuumed daily, with the vacuum bag frozen as well. It is also necessary to treat the foundation of your house with an insecticide like permethrin.
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