Articles & Podcast Episodes

Bed Bugs: What Disease Is Caused, Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options

Bed bugs do not transmit diseases to humans. They can cause allergic reactions and skin infections, but these are not classified as diseases. Some sources mention connections to diseases like leprosy or Q-fever, but evidence is weak. Bed bug bites often lead to discomfort and can impact sleep quality. The risks associated with bed bugs … Read more

What Do Bed Bug Bites Feel Like? Symptoms, Identification, and Relief Tips

Bed bug bites usually cause itchy, raised red welts. These welts often form in clusters or a zigzag pattern. At first, bites may feel like small pinpricks. Common symptoms include a burning sensation and swelling. Some people may experience allergic reactions, resulting in intense itching or blisters. Bites typically heal within a week. Identifying bed … Read more

Bed Bugs: What They Look Like, Signs of Infestation, and Prevention Tips

Bed bugs are wingless, oval-shaped insects. Adults are about the size of an apple seed (5-7 mm) and have a reddish-brown color. Immature bed bugs, or nymphs, are smaller and translucent whitish-yellow, becoming darker as they grow. After feeding, they swell and darken. Their bites can cause red, itchy welts on the skin. Signs of … Read more

Bed Bug Odor: What Do Bed Bugs Smell Like and Signs of Infestation

Bed bugs smell musty and sweet because of their pheromones. People often compare this smell to spoiled raspberries, coriander, or wet laundry. A strong musty odor can signal a bed bug infestation. Early detection of this smell can help identify the problem before it gets worse. Signs of infestation include live bed bugs, their shed … Read more

Bed Bugs: What They Eat, Their Feeding Habits, and Host Preferences Explained

Bed bugs eat the blood of warm-blooded animals, with humans as their preferred hosts. They are nocturnal, feeding for about 10–15 minutes each night. These small, wingless insects belong to the species Cimex lectularius. Regular blood meals provide essential nutrients for their survival and growth. Bed bugs feed by piercing the skin with their elongated … Read more