What Could Be Causing These Small Red Bites? Here's Our Take

Reader Question: Identifying Itchy Red Bites

I have recently gotten a few small, itchy red bites on my left leg and one or two elsewhere on my body, but at varying times. The latest bites came in a small group in a semi-circle and were slightly itchy and another had two small bumps side-by-side.

Please see the picture below and please let me know what you think it might be!

Cheers.

Our Response

Hi, thank you for your question and for including the photos. Based on the images provided, the small red bites appear to be raised and slightly inflamed, with some occurring in clusters or pairs. Let’s explore the possible causes and what you can do next.

Possible Causes

• Bed Bugs: The pattern of bites—clusters, semi-circles, or pairs—is consistent with bed bug activity. Bed bugs typically bite exposed skin at night, often leaving behind small, red, itchy welts.
• Fleas: Flea bites often appear as small, itchy red spots, usually in clusters or lines. If you’ve been around pets or outdoor areas, fleas could be the cause.
• Other Insects: Mosquitoes, mites, or other insects could also be responsible, especially if you’ve been outdoors or in areas with potential pest exposure.
• Allergic Reaction: Sometimes, what appears to be bites could be an allergic reaction to irritants such as detergents, fabrics, or cleaning products.

Steps to Identify the Cause

1. Inspect Your Living Area: Check your bed, mattress, and nearby furniture
   for signs of bed bugs, such as live bugs, black fecal spots, or shed skins. Flea activity can be checked with a white sock test (walking through areas to see if fleas jump onto the sock).
2. Track the Timing and Location: Note when and where the bites occur. Bed bug bites typically appear overnight, while flea bites often occur during the day.
3. Eliminate Allergens: Consider any recent changes in detergents, soaps, or clothing that might have caused an allergic reaction.

What You Can Do

• Clean and Treat: Wash all bedding, clothing, and fabrics in hot water and dry them on high heat. Vacuum your home thoroughly, especially in cracks, crevices, and around furniture.
• Apply Bite Relief: Use over-the-counter anti-itch creams, such as hydrocortisone, or take antihistamines to relieve itching and inflammation.
• Use Monitors: Set up bed bug interceptors or flea traps to monitor pest activity and confirm the source of the bites.

When to Seek Help

If the bites persist, worsen, or you find evidence of pests such as bed bugs or fleas, consider contacting a pest control professional for an inspection and treatment plan. If an allergic reaction is suspected, consult a doctor for further advice.
The pattern and appearance of your bites suggest a pest issue, possibly bed bugs or fleas, but further inspection is needed to confirm the cause. Taking the steps outlined above should help identify the source and provide relief. Let us know if you have additional questions or updates—we’re here to help! Best regards,

Jeff,
Editor and Publisher
Bed Bugs Handbook