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Joseph Nicholson

Joseph Nicholson is an independent analyst whose publishing achievements include a cover feature for "Futures Magazine" and a recurring column in the monthly newsletter of a private mint. He received a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Florida and is currently attending law school in San Francisco.

Bed bugs were once exterminated in the United States using DDT and other highly toxic chemicals. Since the dangers of these chemicals have become better understood, they have been banned from use in residential areas. As a result, many cities in the United States have experienced a resurgence in bed-bug populations. Bed-bug bites can be extremely uncomfortable, but are usually not dangerous because bed bugs do not spread disease like ticks. A small percentage of the population may experience anaphylactic shock due to an allergic reaction to bed-bug saliva.

Bed bugs feed on human blood. Through the proboscis they apply a topical anesthetic that prevents their victim from noticing the bite and keeps the blood from clotting. The itchiness is caused by the fact that most people are in fact allergic to this chemical, though only very few will have a seriously dangerous reaction. When people do discover a bite, its usually because of the itchy red welts or other skin irritation.

Bed-bug bites resemble a mosquito or most other insect bites. If they are tightly grouped, they may resemble a rash. Their frequent recurrence usually confirms they are in fact bed-bug bites.

Until the bed bugs themselves are eliminated, which is difficult to do, the only possible treatment is to alleviate the symptoms of the bites. This can be done most simply with cold water and ice. Other home remedies include a paste of equal parts salt and baking soda in water. Oatmeal in a warm bath can also provide some relief. If you are not allergic to aspirin, try dipping a cotton ball in Alka-Seltzer and rubbing it on the bites. Calamine lotion is another common remedy for skin irritation.

Professional medical attention is only necessary if you experience acute respiratory failure or other symptoms of anaphylactic shock as a result of bed-bug bites. The other major concern is whether the bites turn into open wounds because of scratching. If this occurs, rinse thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water or apply an antibiotic cream or ointment. In some cases, a secondary infection at the site of a bed-bug bite can be more dangerous than the original bite.

Bed bug bitesitchy, red welts often in straight linesare rarely dangerous, but may cause sufferers to lose sleep and experience much discomfort....

If you sleep on a bed-bug-infested bed and get bitten, you will definitely not have a comfortable time sleeping. Bed bug bites...

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