Greensboro has its fair share of pests, but bed bugs are a whole different problem. Their size and rapid reproduction cycle make it difficult for homeowners to eliminate these insects. Read on to learn why calling a Greensboro pest control company is the best way to get rid of bed bugs in your home.
What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?
Bed bugs in Greensboro are commonly misidentified as ticks or fleas due to their similar appearance. Not helping matters are similar behaviors found in all three. However, key characteristics make bed bugs stand out from the rest.
Bed bugs have long, flat, oval-shaped bodies that can grow up to seven millimeters long. In terms of size, this puts them in the same ballpark as similar parasites. However, bed bugs have a distinct reddish-brown color.
After feeding on blood, bed bugs change shape somewhat. They become bloated, with their abdomens growing longer to store their meal. Larger bed bugs are usually those who have recently fed.
Are Bed Bugs Dangerous?
While they do feed on human blood, bed bugs are not known to transmit disease. In that regard, they seem harmless, especially compared to other parasites. However, they still pose a threat to your health and well-being through their bites.
Bed bug bites appear on your skin as swollen reddish bumps. When multiple bed bugs feed on the same area of your body, such as your arms or legs, the resulting marks can look and feel like a rash. The wounds are itchy, and that's where the danger lies.
Continued scratching of bites can create tiny wounds. If exposed to bacteria, such injuries can lead to cellulitis. You should seek medical attention if you experience fevers, pain, tenderness, or swelling.
Thankfully, bed bug bites are apparent on your skin. Once you spot them, you should assume an infestation is present and call a bed bug pest control service for your home. The longer you wait, the more frequent the biting will become.
Why Do I Have Bed Bugs In My House?
How do bed bugs get into your home in the first place? You may be shocked to learn it has nothing to do with filth or clutter. Here are the three most common methods:
Bed bugs catch rides on people. If you're wondering how these pests have been found worldwide, it's because they like to hide in your clothes or luggage. Time spent in an infested space is the most common way they spread.
They can also catch rides on your pets. Like fleas and ticks, bed bugs will not only infiltrate your home via your furry friend. Bed bugs are also known to feed on cats and dogs.
Bed bugs can also hide in second-hand furniture. Unless sellers know they're living with an infestation, they likely haven't treated the pieces they're passing on to others. Used furniture that carries even a single bed bug will quickly cause problems in your home.
Once they're in your home, you'll need to call an experienced pest control to eliminate bed bugs. Unfortunately, once you know bugs are present, relying on natural pest control for bed bugs and bed bug control techniques for your home will do little to slow their spread. Preventive strategies are only helpful after professional extermination has taken place.
What's The Fastest Way To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs?
Calling on home pest control in Greensboro is the best way to end your infestation woes, and Othos Pest Management is the best option. We'll work with you to find the best solution for you. Contact us for your over-the-phone quote or to learn more about bed bugs.