Are These Bites Still from Bed Bugs? Here's Our Thoughts

by Jeanmarie
(Scottsdale Arizona USA )

Reader Question: Are These Marks Still Caused by Bed Bugs?

I have a friend bring bed bugs into my home a couple months ago and it's been hell but I've got rid of all my furniture. The home has been sprayed by an exterminator several times. I'm still itching a lot and took a picture. Could this possibly be bed bugs. I feel a pinch and then I'll see a white circle.

Our Response

Hi Jeanmarie, thank you for your question and for providing the picture. Based on the photo, the marks appear to be light, circular spots with no clear signs of typical bed bug bites, which are usually red and inflamed. Let’s assess whether bed bugs are still the issue and explore other possible causes for your symptoms

Could This Be Bed Bugs?

• Bed Bug Bite Characteristics: Bed bug bites often appear as small, red, itchy welts and are commonly grouped in clusters or lines. The white circles shown in the photo are not consistent with typical bed bug bites.
• Exterminator Treatments: Since your home has been treated multiple times by a professional, it’s less likely that active bed bugs are still present, especially if no other signs (like live bugs, fecal spots, or eggs) have been found recently.
• Delayed Reaction to Bites: In some cases, people can have delayed reactions to previous bites, which might explain the itching even after the infestation is under control.

Other Possible Causes

• Skin Irritation: The itching and white circles could be due to skin irritation or an allergic reaction, potentially
  triggered by residual chemicals from the extermination process.
• Contact Dermatitis: Exposure to sprays, cleaners, or other household products might cause contact dermatitis, leading to itchy, inflamed skin.
• Environmental Allergens: Dust mites, pet dander, or other allergens in your home could also contribute to ongoing itching.

What You Can Do Next

1. Inspect for Bed Bugs Again: Perform a thorough check of your home, especially in cracks, crevices, and furniture seams, to ensure there are no lingering signs of bed bugs.
2. Clean Thoroughly: Vacuum your home regularly, including mattresses, baseboards, and furniture. Dispose of vacuum bags immediately in sealed plastic bags.
3. Wash Bedding and Clothing: Wash all fabrics in hot water and dry them on high heat to eliminate any potential allergens or residual pests.
4. Address Skin Symptoms: Use over-the-counter anti-itch creams, such as hydrocortisone, and take antihistamines to reduce itching. Oatmeal baths or cool compresses can also provide relief.
5. Consult a Doctor: If the white circles and itching persist, visit a dermatologist to rule out other skin conditions or allergies.

When to Call the Exterminator Again

If you find any evidence of bed bugs during your inspection, contact your exterminator immediately for a follow-up treatment. Most professional pest control services offer guarantees and will return if the infestation is not fully resolved.

Jeanmarie, while the white circles in your photo don’t look like typical bed bug bites, continued monitoring and cleaning are essential to ensure the problem doesn’t persist. Itching could be related to residual chemicals or an unrelated skin condition, so consulting a doctor is a good next step. Let us know if you have further questions or updates—we’re here to help!

Best regards,

Jeff,
Editor and Publisher
Bed Bugs Handbook