Bed Bugs are blood-sucking insects that infest old furniture, box springs, mattresses and bedding. They come out at night to feed on human blood. As a result, skin reactions to the bites are usually found in the mornings on skin not covered by sleepwear. The rash appears as grouped, itchy, red or purple bumps, hives or even blisters. They usually occur in a group of three, the so-called “breakfast, lunch, dinner pattern.” Because some people are not sensitive to the bed bugs, not everyone who is exposed gets the same skin reaction.
In urban areas like New York City, bedbugs have become so common that they are no longer associated with poor hygiene. If you suspect you have an infestation, you should check your bed in the middle of the night using a flashlight. Be sure to inspect all folds, seams and corner of your sheets, blankets, mattress and box spring. Bedbugs are 5-7 mm brown insects with a flat bottom and can be seen easily by the naked eye. If you find them, you must call an exterminator immediately. Your dermatologist may prescribe topical corticosteroids to help with the symptoms.