This can be a complicated question to answer. The simple answer is, no. Bed bugs aren't nearly as dangerous as many other insect pests, like mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, cockroaches, etc. But they're also not entirely harmless. The fact that they leave bites on your skin makes them a danger. Only you can determine how much of a danger these insects present. Let's consider the ways bed bugs can impact your life so you can decide whether or not they're dangerous.
Night Bites
No one likes to get bitten. Some like it less than others. But there is something uniquely disturbing about having bugs come out of the woodwork to feed on you while you're sleeping. If this makes you feel uneasy, it can lead to sleeplessness, which is decidedly more dangerous to your health than bed bugs. Sleeplessness can reduce cognitive ability and make operating a vehicle a danger. For the vast majority of people, it doesn't come to this. If you have a fear of bed bugs, you're probably going to take quick and decisive action and contact a licensed pest management professional to get rid of those bugs with extreme prejudice.
Allergies
If bed bugs bite you, the bites may be mild and unnoticeable, or they might be itchy, irritating, or even painful. It depends on how much of a reaction you have to the anticoagulant administered into the wound. Allergies are why bed bug bites swell up and have a rash around them. But, research indicates that 30 to 60 percent of people who are bitten by bed bugs do not exhibit any reaction at all—not even a bump and a rash. There is, however, a very small chance of a serious reaction due to anaphylaxis. If you have insect allergies, you could be at risk. It is important to keep in mind that an anaphylactic response to bed bugs is only supported by the scientific data. There are currently no real-world, verifiable cases that can be sited.
Diseases
There is currently research going on to determine whether or not bed bugs can spread harmful diseases. A correlation between Chagas disease and bed bugs has been found but, as with anaphylaxis, there are no real-world cases. All we can say is that bed bugs are able to spread the bacterium that causes Chagas disease, and this disease can be very dangerous.
Anemia
Since most bed bug bites aren't too bad, these insects can be allowed to bite several times. Over a period of time, this can lead to a condition called anemia. What happens is red blood cells are removed and this restricts the flow of oxygen to body tissue. If you start feeling weak or tired, it could be related to bed bugs in your home, even if you're not getting noticeably bad, rashy bites.
Numerous Bites
Each individual bed bug bites more than once—often three times. If you're getting bites, it is likely that you're getting more than a few bites. Over time, you can start having enough bites that they start to become noticeable to others. This can lead to a different kind of danger. When people find out, or suspect, that you have a bed bug infestation, it will be hard to host parties and gatherings at your home. This can be a danger to your social life. While minor, it's something to consider.
Do You See The Problem?
Bed bugs have the potential to be dangerous, but most of the time, they're not. That's the reality of it. But they're definitely not harmless. How harmful are they? Well, that is for you to decide. When you find bed bugs inside your home, it is definitely a good idea to take action and do something to get rid of them.
What Is Required To Exterminate Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs have been living with humans since before recorded history. If they were easy to exterminate, they would be extinct by now. These are evasive, resilient, and pernicious pests. If you go after them with DIY bed bug strategies and over-the-counter products, you're likely to be disappointed. This will cost you money and likely extend your discomfort.
What You Should Do About Bed Bugs
The best solution to a bed bug infestation is to contact a licensed pest management professional. If you live in Monmouth county, consider reaching out to Alliance Pest Services. We understand bed bugs and we know what is needed to locate and eliminate them. Our technicians use science-based methods to get the best results, every time. Schedule a service visit for your Monmouth County residence. You don't have to let the bed bugs bite. Get relief today.
