While there is no official bedbug season, as the weather gets colder and holiday travel begins, it is important to look out for potential bedbugs and their bites. Bedbugs are small, brown, oval-shaped, insects that feed on human blood. They can bite the skin and cause very itchy bumps that look like bad mosquito bites. Oftentimes bedbug bites are in groups of two or three on the skin. They can itch a lot for several days, look pink and swollen, and then go away on their own.

HOW DID YOU GET BEDBUGS AND HOW TO GET RID OF THEM

Bedbugs can enter the house undetected, through clothing, luggage, furniture, and other items. Because they are active during the night, it can be very hard to spot them. Since bed bugs are so hard to find, an exterminator may be needed to confirm that there are bedbugs present in one’s house. This involves checking and treating cushions, mattresses, and furniture in the house. Never put luggage on your bed or couch. Invest in a hard shell suitcase and always inspect your hotel mattress upon check-in.

DERMATOLOGISTS CAN HELP

If you’re suffering from bedbugs, your dermatologist can help diagnose this and even offer prescription creams to help with the itching. For bedbug bites and all other dermatology needs, please reach out to the Dermatology Institute of Boston. Our expertly trained physicians are eager and able to assist you and your skin needs today! Contact us to get started.