Bug Bites in Triangle - What is the Cause

by Ivett Cser
(Budapest Hungary)

Soon after family left after visiting, I noticed a large traingle shape on my knee with three large bug bites. They do not look like bed bug bites (been bitten by a colony of bed bugs before in small red clusters all over) but a mosquito or something else. They are large smooth bumps, almost the size of the dime. I took it for bed bug bites and I washed the bedding via a service to kill anything and sprayed my apartment with treatment. a couple days later I have two more large triangle shapes near my glute equal to size of the first triangle. Is this a bed bug? the shape and size and texture of the bites are not small and closely collected to each other. The triangle is roughly 2.5 inches in size with three near dime sized smooth bumps. I looked for the photos i took of the swarm feeding that happened to me years ago to compare and they are not similar. curious as to what I should do since I do not think my apartment and cat will survive. Already checked the cat and had him scrubbed down (that one was funny) and he is clean.

Suggestions from Our Editor

Hi Ivett,
Thank you for sharing the details about your situation. I can understand how unsettling it must be to notice unusual bite patterns, especially after your past experience with bed bugs.

Could This Be Bed Bugs?

From your description, the bites you’re experiencing are not typical of bed bugs. Bed bug bites are usually small, red, and appear in clusters or lines, as you’ve experienced before. The size and smooth texture of the bumps, as well as their triangular arrangement, suggest a different cause.

Possible Culprits

Here are a few potential explanations:

1. Mosquitoes or Other Biting Insects: Larger, smooth bumps that are about the size of a dime are more consistent with mosquito bites or another type of insect. Triangular patterns could occur if multiple bites
   happen in close proximity.
2. Fleas: While your cat is clean, it’s worth checking your home for fleas. Flea bites are often small, red, and itchy, but in some cases, allergic reactions can cause larger bumps.
3. Spiders: Spider bites are another possibility, especially if the bites are larger and appear in unusual patterns. A spider crawling across your skin at night could bite multiple times in a triangular arrangement.
4. Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, what appear to be bug bites are actually skin reactions to irritants like detergents, cleaning products, or environmental allergens.

Steps to Take

1. Inspect for Bed Bugs

Even though the bites don’t resemble bed bug bites, it’s still wise to rule them out. Check your mattress, box spring, bed frame, and surrounding furniture for:

• Live bugs.
• Dark spots or fecal stains.
• Shed skins or eggs in seams and crevices.

2. Monitor Your Symptoms

Keep an eye on the bite areas for changes. If the bumps become larger, more painful, or show signs of infection (e.g., redness, swelling, or pus), consult a healthcare provider.

3. Inspect for Fleas or Other Pests

Vacuum thoroughly, especially around carpets, furniture, and areas where your cat spends time. You can also place flea traps (available at pet stores) to monitor for any activity.

4. Consider Professional Help

If you’re unable to identify the source, contacting a pest control professional can help pinpoint the issue. They can inspect for a range of pests, not just bed bugs.

What About Your Cat?

It’s great that you’ve already checked and bathed your cat, but keep monitoring for any signs of itching or discomfort. If fleas or other pests are ruled out, your cat should be in the clear.
While bed bugs seem unlikely based on your description, it’s essential to stay vigilant. Continue monitoring your home, symptoms, and surroundings to identify the source of these unusual bite patterns. Let me know if you have additional questions or need further guidance—I’m here to help!
Best regards,
Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Bed Bugs Handbook