http://bedbugger.com/forum/ Bed bug support forums en Mon, 20 May 2013 08:44:42 +0000 http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-22726 Fri, 02 May 2008 08:46:10 +0000 Battle of the Bugs 22726@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>From what I understand, bite descriptions vary greatly among individuals and can not really be compared. They don't even show up on some people because they don't have a reaction to them. I would say mine are a combination of bedbugsenigma's and bumpsinthenight(love than handle): raised, swollen, red, painful, hard when fresh and stay that way for at least 2 weeks. Then eventually fade to purple. I'm looking at some on my arm now that are about a month old, the scars take a long time to totally disappear (I suppose, not unlike the emotional scars bed bugs leave behind). Mine also have the pin prick as described by Mixedfeelings. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-22675 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:04:47 +0000 MixedFeelings 22675@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Usually I just get the tiny, tiny pin-prick marks. But one bite on my chest *did* leave a bruise. The bruise was about the size of a small thumbprint, with the usual pin-prick in the center. But that is not usually the case for me.</p> <p>MF </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-22662 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:23:16 +0000 bugaphobic 22662@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Count me in on the bruises. I was getting a shower &#38; found what looked to me to be 3 bites on the inside of my upper thigh, I scratched them for a couple seconds hard. (I know....probably shouldn't have) but they stopped itching &#38; that was that....until the next day when the area that I scratched was completely bruised all along where the bites were. I honestly didn't scratch THAT hard....it looks like I fell or something. (Very black bruising) I thought this was WAY weird! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-19025 Sun, 17 Feb 2008 20:49:16 +0000 OuchInSeattle 19025@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Great idea. He's up in Vancouver (a 3 hour drive away, on the other side of the border), but I pinged ThermaPureHeat to see if there is anyone local.</p> <p>Anyone ever use this method and get results? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-18994 Sat, 16 Feb 2008 09:34:29 +0000 St.BarthsBites 18994@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Seattle-</p> <p>Why don't you call Tony Canevaro at Baked Bed Bugs. Not sure where they are but somewhere on west coast. He responded recently to a post about Thermal treatment for bed bugs. I'm on the east coast but this is an approach that I would seriously consider since it seems eco-friendly. Just trying to line up someone in the NYC metro area to do it. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-18993 Sat, 16 Feb 2008 01:50:36 +0000 OuchInSeattle 18993@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Anyone with recommendations in the Seattle area/Eastside? My wife is bite free, but mine have been getting worse each day this week.</p> <p>I've looked and looked and no signs of the buggers, but I'm pretty sure they're there. Will try to do my own defense this weekend, but with a toddler and infant I'm not sure how well I can keep them from breaking the defenses :-p </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-18625 Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:07:09 +0000 bedbugsenigma 18625@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I hope you'll find the source of that pain, annanicolaou. 2+ months sounds like a long time! Keep us posted and good luck! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-18623 Sun, 10 Feb 2008 23:59:58 +0000 annanicolaou 18623@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I have had a weird kind of reaction to the bites as well. I have been getting bitten on and off since November. I can tell when I get a fresh bite - there is usually a sharp pain and sometimes some kind of swelling. I have also had a few bites that are simply little red bumps. I have been treated 2x and have not seen any more of the little red ones or the "new" painful ones. However, I still have pains all over my body that feel exactly like bruises. The thing is, only a few of these spots actually LOOKED like bruises. Most of my body shows no sign of anything, even though I have these painful spots all over. I had some bloodwork done by a doctor and it all came back negative. I also have gone to a dermoatologist who was unsure of what it could be, waiting for the biopsy results. I am comforted to hear that others have this bruise-like symptom though, as my exterminators were concerned about this and said they had never heard of it before. People keep telling me I am crazy and just imagining these pains, but as much as I would like this to be true, I can't ignore the feelings. Hopefully the biopsy will find a solution to this all. I also am confused because I literally have had these pains in my body for 2+months, and I am fairly certain that I am not actually getting any new bites. Hopefully it will just fade away in the long term...? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-18564 Sun, 10 Feb 2008 00:47:19 +0000 bedbugsenigma 18564@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>More than bruises I'd say that some of mine, when they're done with the swelling, become dark red marks. They're flat, small, dark red marks. I don't scratch myself at all (use anti-itch unguent), so these are not scarf. Don't know what they are and hope they will fade with time. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-18561 Sun, 10 Feb 2008 00:35:31 +0000 bumpsinthenight 18561@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Most of my bites were red and very swollen (raised and hard to the touch). I had one bite on my thigh that swelled to a huge circle (most of my thigh). That one left a purple bruise. I have very sensitive skin and bruise easily. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-18516 Sat, 09 Feb 2008 11:31:52 +0000 OntheEdge 18516@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>most all of my bites look like bruises, but that is because I have an enlarged spleen and my blood does not clot like a normal persons. I have some that look like the tiny red dots and some that are white and look like blisters. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-18483 Fri, 08 Feb 2008 21:50:37 +0000 bedbugsenigma 18483@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>If anyone successfully got rid of bed bugs in NYC, can they share the name of the company they used? It would be immensely appreciated! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-18473 Fri, 08 Feb 2008 20:39:15 +0000 bedbugsenigma 18473@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I did not have a good experience with Bugoff. PM if you want to know more. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-18109 Sun, 03 Feb 2008 22:53:15 +0000 Bistec 18109@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I called Bugoff and they told me that I only need 1 treatment and that is all. However upon reading on this site...it calls for 2 to 3 treatments. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/new-bites-from-unknown-bug-that-arent-itchy-and-change-appearance#post-11446 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 15:05:40 +0000 goingcrazy 11446@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Yeah, I already read that here, but thanks. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/new-bites-from-unknown-bug-that-arent-itchy-and-change-appearance#post-11443 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 15:02:23 +0000 Nobugsonme 11443@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Bed bug bites not only don't look or feel the same on all people, they also don't look and feel the same on a single person all the time. If that helps. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/new-bites-from-unknown-bug-that-arent-itchy-and-change-appearance#post-11436 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 14:03:38 +0000 goingcrazy 11436@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Well, I had gone roughly 2 weeks without bites and was pretty sure I didn't have bed bugs, that it was just mosquitos, which seem to be breeding in my apartment. I stopped sleeping with long sleeves, socks, and bug spray from head to toe a few nights ago. I've seen mosquitos as recently as two days ago. Blast this unusually warm weather! (I'm in NYC)</p> <p>Then last night at 6 am I woke up from scratching. I thought I was just being paranoid, but I turned on the lights and saw that I had one bite on my hand, one by my elbow, one under my chin, and three on my right calf.</p> <p>The bite on my hand was white in the center and red around that. On my elbow it was completely pale and about the size of a quarter. The ones on my calf looked like blisters. I had a hard time really seeing the one under my chin.</p> <p>They didn't really itch much at all once I got out of bed. One sort of stings a little bit, but that's it.</p> <p>I managed to fall back asleep and when I woke up a few hours later, the bites all looked completely different. Now they're all red, no white/paleness anywhere. Plus, they don't itch. My other bites in these areas itched like crazy before.</p> <p>Any clue as to what this means, if anything? Mosquitos or bed bugs? I've never had hives in my life, and I don't think these look like them. </p> <p>Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11378 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:52:10 +0000 Nobugsonme 11378@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I would seriously suggest people use the cloth ones though. The vinyl are meant for box springs and the cloth are secure and so comfortable. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11275 Fri, 19 Oct 2007 18:18:35 +0000 goingcrazy 11275@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>And now I'll recommend them too. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11269 Fri, 19 Oct 2007 16:21:44 +0000 Nobugsonme 11269@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>They are nice, goingcrazy. We wouldn't recommend them if not. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11266 Fri, 19 Oct 2007 14:17:16 +0000 goingcrazy 11266@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I just called them, and they said they'll send me another one, no problem. They were very nice. Awesome! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11259 Fri, 19 Oct 2007 10:02:31 +0000 pleasehelp 11259@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Please let us know what they do about your ripped cover!!!! Thanks. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11257 Fri, 19 Oct 2007 09:20:40 +0000 goingcrazy 11257@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Okay. </p> <p>Seeing as how one of the vinyl ones ripped, I'm going to see how they handle that before even thinking about giving them more business, and I really don't need yet another mattress cover now. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11248 Fri, 19 Oct 2007 00:47:09 +0000 Nobugsonme 11248@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Goingcrazy, if you read the descriptions, <a href="http://www.natlallergy.com/search.asp?ss=bed+bugs&#38;eid=INTBB&#38;sid=INTBB">these cloth plus polyurethene covers</a> have been tested to keep bed bugs from going through the fabric or zippers. </p> <p>(The site sells lots of other products, but these do mention having passed the bed bug tests. There's test data linked from the descriptions.) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11233 Thu, 18 Oct 2007 15:40:56 +0000 goingcrazy 11233@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>The reason I gave up on the PCO after the no-show was because I had another PCO tell me they don't inspect because they get false negatives a lot of the time, and I've had people tell me that they've heard of PCOs actually planting a bug to get some business.</p> <p>Plus, I really don't have much availability during work hours, as I am at school almost all day, so having to wait around in my apartment isn't always possible.</p> <p>I really have no reason to think it could possibly be fleas. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11220 Thu, 18 Oct 2007 13:40:10 +0000 buggeroff 11220@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Well, you have two choices: Let it slide until the cold weather hits. If you're still getting bitten at that point, mosquitoes is probably not the reason why (though fleas could still be a possibility, evenin the city) and you call the PCO then.</p> <p>Call the PCO now and let him inspect. If he finds nothing and you get the impression he knows what he's doing, well, then chances are good it was mosquitoes and you'll get further confirmation of that when the weather cools off.</p> <p>It seems to me that the only downside of having a PCO come over is that you have to wait around the apartment for him. Unless he's trying to charge you money for the inspection, that is. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11208 Thu, 18 Oct 2007 01:22:49 +0000 goingcrazy 11208@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Ok, I'll call them. The cloth covers didn't say expressly bed-bug proof, which is why I didn't get those. I'm not sure - it may have been ripped before I even put it on - I noticed it as I was putting it on.</p> <p>It's just I'm wondering - at what point do I assume I don't have them? Because while it's true that I could have them and not see them/signs of them, and have them and not be getting bitten, it's also possible that I simply don't have them!</p> <p>I think the bites were roughly a week apart each time. Unfortunately I didn't really keep a record of them. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11204 Wed, 17 Oct 2007 23:51:18 +0000 Nobugsonme 11204@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Call them goingcrazy. Their cloth covers are what I use, but their vinyl ones are supposed to be stronger than the usual vinyl ones. It should not rip so easily.</p> <p>Lots of people have them and do not see them. You may have a few. They can hide well, anywhere in the room.</p> <p>What was the spacing between bites? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11196 Wed, 17 Oct 2007 22:49:33 +0000 goingcrazy 11196@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'm a law student, so I don't really go many places besides school. When I do go places, it's usually to a movie or a restaurant, but this is NYC so I don't really have a regular place for either of those things, and can't think of anywhere I was twice recently. I live in the city, so no cars. Although I have visited friends at home, I haven't visited any of them in their home more than once recently.</p> <p>I had bites on three separate occasions:</p> <p>The first occasion I was bit all over my arms and legs, and I had really loose fitting pajamas on that could've rolled up. (No bites above the knee or upper arms.) </p> <p>However, the second occasion I had my window open and the screen down, which is why my doctor thought some bites could be no-see-ums, since they can get through screens.</p> <p>The third occasion I only got one for sure bite, and two maybe bites (I think one was a zit, and one was just paranoia-related, not sure.)</p> <p>Up until the time of the last bites, I was seeing mosquitos all the time. </p> <p>I encased my matresses tonight with the vinyl covers from National Allergy. I was very careful, but one of them ripped along the seam! Will they send me another, do you think? Should I just tape it up? When I was moving the mattress/bed, I looked all around and saw nothing. I know that doesn't mean much, but I'm still hopeful! My friends all seem convinced I don't have them, and keep telling me I'm being ridiculous when I tell them I don't want to come over for fear of spreading them. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11190 Wed, 17 Oct 2007 20:23:03 +0000 Nobugsonme 11190@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>It doesn't have to be a <em>new</em> hangout. It's POSSIBLE that somewhere you go regularly (friend's, bar, a room in the workplace) is infested, if there's somewhere you have not been since 1-9 days before the last bite. It does not have to be the whole place ("work"); it could be one chair, one couch, one friend's car. I'd be seriously vigilant. </p> <p>On how many separate occasions did you experience bites?</p> <p>It is also possible that you have a few bugs and they are not feeding very often (perhaps it is cold), but 2 weeks seems like a long time between bites. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11187 Wed, 17 Oct 2007 19:22:06 +0000 goingcrazy 11187@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I had no treatments. I didn't sleep anywhere else. Yes, I've gone to movies. No, new hangouts. They didn't appear all at once. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11184 Wed, 17 Oct 2007 18:08:04 +0000 Nobugsonme 11184@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Wait, goingcrazy--I thought you had had NO treatments. If that is correct, it could be bed bugs, but they may have bit you outside your home. Did you sleep elsewhere? GO to a movie? A new hangout? Bars and restaurants may even have them. It is not that widespread, but you could have been bitten somewhere else. They can take time to appear. The question is whether they all appeared at once. If not, then you probably were bitten over time rather than in one shot. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11181 Wed, 17 Oct 2007 16:51:52 +0000 nightshirt 11181@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>if you thought you had them and had 1 treatment and do have them you would need more treatments. i would use another pco - that one is not reliable. for about 9-11 days after my treatments i did not get bit then it started again b/c of births from eggs that were not killed by the chemicals.</p> <p>truly relax - no bites for 55 days. mine have been gone since last january and i am just letting myself relax. even though you dont see them they can be there. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/think-i-dont-have-them-dont-know-how-ill-ever-know#post-11180 Wed, 17 Oct 2007 16:38:22 +0000 goingcrazy 11180@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hi again.</p> <p>The good news is that I haven't had any new bites in over one week. I was never sure if I had them or not. My bites looked and felt a lot like mosquito bites, but I questioned it because I had so many of them. Also, they're taking a long time to heal, although I never really paid attention to how long my mosquito bites in the past took to heal, so I don't know - is 1-2 weeks a long time for that? Most of them are almost completely gone, but I still see hints.</p> <p>I scheduled a highly reputable PCO in NY to inspect the place on Monday (don't think I should say the name) who ended up keeping me waiting and then canceling, essentially. I can reschedule if necessary, but since I haven't been bitten in one-two weeks and don't have any definitive signs, I'm just wondering when it's safe to assume that they were in fact, just mosquitos.</p> <p>I'm still being extremely careful so as not to spread them if I do have them, but if anybody could give me some advice as to when I can truly relax, I'd appreciate it.</p> <p>(And I'm encasing my mattress tonight with the product recommended on this site, just in case/to help in the future.)</p> <p>Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-11026 Sun, 14 Oct 2007 15:20:07 +0000 BlueCanary 11026@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I've found that too. It only happens with a couple, though. I had one on my leg that bruised badly enough that I was sure it was some sort of infection from a spider bite. I went so far as going to the pharmacy just to make sure. I'm still not sure if they were bed bug bites or if spiders had decided to taste me as well. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10976 Fri, 12 Oct 2007 17:56:39 +0000 goingcrazy 10976@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Well, it's not erythema nodosum, but thanks for the suggestion.</p> <p>I'm sure the bruises are caused by the bites, I've just never experienced that before. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10966 Fri, 12 Oct 2007 16:11:19 +0000 Nobugsonme 10966@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Some people get bruises when they have blood drawn. Could this be related to bruising being caused by bites? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10958 Fri, 12 Oct 2007 14:50:16 +0000 bummedindenver 10958@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Well, apparently erythema nodosum can show up on hands too. I think it is most common knees and below, and mine were only from my knees to my feet. </p> <p>It just struck me that I first thought they were bites. It was just a thought. </p> <p>Oh, and just so you know, I wouldn't trust a general practitioner to recognize it. I first went to my regular doctor who said I had infected cysts and put me on antibiotics. The antibiotics did nothing, so he sent me to the dermatologist. Derm took one look and in an instant diagnosed it. </p> <p>Good luck. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10897 Thu, 11 Oct 2007 20:02:31 +0000 goingcrazy 10897@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Well, one area by my ankle looks like a minor bruise. The other bruise-type bites are on the side of my hand. I am female. However, most of my bites don't look like bruises.</p> <p>Thanks a lot - I'll look into it! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10880 Thu, 11 Oct 2007 15:44:43 +0000 bummedindenver 10880@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I meant SHINS, not chins.....duhhhh. typing too fast. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10879 Thu, 11 Oct 2007 15:43:40 +0000 bummedindenver 10879@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Okay, this may be WAY off base, but I'm curious, are any of these bruise-like bites on your knees, chins or feet? And are you female?</p> <p>If this seems like a totally crazy question, let me explain. Many years ago, I had what I thought were bug bites on my chins and then feet. They were red and swollen, and at first really looked like bug bites. But then they got quite tender and painful.</p> <p>I eventually saw a dermatologist who diagnosed erythema nodosum, a condition fairly common in young women. </p> <p>Just a thought.... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10776 Wed, 10 Oct 2007 02:11:58 +0000 Nobugsonme 10776@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Scabs are also common. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/use-friends-products-on-untreated-apartment#post-10775 Wed, 10 Oct 2007 02:05:15 +0000 Nobugsonme 10775@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>goingcrazy,</p> <p>Unfortunately, this is a commonly-held misconception.</p> <p>I have a theory that many of the people with the most virulent cases of bed bugs live in homes where someone (them, their PCO, or the previous occupant) used a bomb. Whenever someone has a case that just won't go away, I wonder if this is why--if they are so widely scattered and dispersed that they are harder to treat.</p> <p>It's just a theory. I am sure it does not apply to all bad cases. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/use-friends-products-on-untreated-apartment#post-10773 Wed, 10 Oct 2007 01:31:45 +0000 goingcrazy 10773@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Yeah, I've heard that too, about the not treating. I'm holding off on using the DE for now, since I'm trying to get a PCO in here sometime in the next few days. The first PCO I talked to warned me he wouldn't treat if I self-treated with DE.</p> <p>And I've been reading everywhere not to use a fogger. It's amazing how many friends have asked, "Why don't you just fog the room?" </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/use-friends-products-on-untreated-apartment#post-10771 Wed, 10 Oct 2007 01:23:20 +0000 Nobugsonme 10771@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>You should also be aware that some PCOS will not treat you if you use DE or other self-treatment methods. I do not think this is a widespread thing, but we have heard it at least once. (Of course the really bag thing to do is use a fogger or bomb, and I would not blame any PCO for not wanting to deal with the aftermath of that--which can mean bed bugs are scattered and spread and very hard to treat.) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/use-friends-products-on-untreated-apartment#post-10766 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 23:21:41 +0000 goingcrazy 10766@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Great, thanks a lot! (It doesn't say freshwater on it, but it does say food grade. It's from that same site.) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/use-friends-products-on-untreated-apartment#post-10761 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 19:48:59 +0000 Nobugsonme 10761@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I could not find an MSDS (material safety data sheet) on pura cleen rx, which is not a great sign. I also could not find any data on its effectiveness, which is also a bad sign. If you want to ask about its active ingredient, I'd ask the folks at thebedbugresource.com which is run by Sean, a PCO. They can probably tell you about that chemical and bed bugs.</p> <p>As far as the DE goes, if it is labeled as freshwater food grade DE, then it is probably great. Just avoid inhaling it or having contact with your skin. (It is still safer than most other things, IMHO, but it's never a good idea to inhale DE or other dusts, and it can have an irritating effect on skin.) The site you linked to says to put it on your mattress--I would not do this, though under and around is great. In cracks of bed frame, cracks of room, etc. is all good. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/use-friends-products-on-untreated-apartment#post-10757 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 18:49:35 +0000 goingcrazy 10757@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Right now I'm still not sure if I have bedbugs or not, but a friend gave me some products to use in case I do. I definitely don't plan on just relying on these products and will hire a PCO, but can anybody tell me if I should just put this stuff out for now until I know for sure (waiting to hear from building management company), or hold off and talk to a PCO? </p> <p>She gave me amorphous diatomaceous earth- pura cleen powder (food grade), and some spray Benzalkonium chloride, which is supposed to be environmentally friendly and non-pesticide based. Google PuraCleenRx Environmental Bed Bug Spray.</p> <p>Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10747 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 16:11:14 +0000 parakeets 10747@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I forgot to say that many of my bites get tiny scabs. If I scratch the scabs off (that's a no-no, but sometimes I can't resist), they come back bigger. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10739 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 14:04:58 +0000 Beatrice 10739@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Most of my bites turned either bright red of purple and left scars. I thought a mosquito had bit me on the ankle until the swelling went down and I noticed that there were two little dots left that looked like all my other bedbug bites. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10737 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 13:38:41 +0000 goingcrazy 10737@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>The responses aren't making me feel overwhelmed. No worries. If anything is overwhelming, it's the situation. I'm glad I have this site as a resource.</p> <p>That's actually one of my concerns - that I'd pay out of my own pocket for a PCO to treat my room, they'd spread to the rest of the building and then eventually come right back to me. Obviously if management doesn't send anybody in but they do tell me to hire a PCO and they'll reimburse, and the PCO finds bedbugs, I'll be sure to really talk to them about inspecting surrounding rooms. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10731 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 12:37:31 +0000 Nobugsonme 10731@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>goingcrazy,</p> <p>I am sorry that people's responses made you feel overwhelmed.</p> <p>No one is suggesting that you "worry about saving the building." What we are saying is that only getting your own apt. treated won't solve your apt.'s problem.</p> <p>You're absolutely right that you need to find out if you have the things. Good luck with that and let us know if you have other questions. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10729 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 10:01:54 +0000 parakeets 10729@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>As for the ear lobe, yes, I was bitten there. I also once got a bedbug bite inside my ear. That was very itchy.</p> <p>Almost none of my bites bruised. I have one bite on my shin that left discolored purple circle about the size of a quarter that I can still see. But that was the exception. If the other bites bruised, and again most didn't, the spots were small, like tiny feathery asterisks drawn by a pale, purple-gray felt tipped pen.</p> <p>In general I found that most of the marks and discolorations made by the bedbug bites faded over time except for a rew. My skin shows everything and is very pale. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10728 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 09:17:02 +0000 goingcrazy 10728@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Wow, I guess I really come across pretty terribly. I thought it was clear that I didn't trust PCO number 1 because he was unconcerned about the rest of the building. I don't know how much action I can take to make the management send in PCOs to all surrounding units, especially since I may be living here illegally. Before I worry about saving the building, I just need to find out whether I even have the things! One step at a time. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10723 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 03:35:52 +0000 Nobugsonme 10723@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hopelessnomo said,</p> <p>"I really hope that your apartment building management arranges for your PCO, for several reasons. One is that the apartments adjacent to yours should be inspected and, if also infested, treated at the same time to ensure that your treatment is successful."</p> <p>i was going to say the same thing. Goingcrazy, you may only be concerned with your apt. but if your neighbors have them, they will keep coming. You really do need your landlord's PCO to inspect and treat the neighbors. Getting your own PCO precludes this.</p> <p>Many readers have had trouble getting rid of bed bugs because they tried to go it alone, getting their own PCO, while their neighbors were untreated.</p> <p>If the landlord is willing to reimburse you, that is good, but the PCO needs to inspect all units adjacent on every side, above, and below. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10721 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 03:27:36 +0000 Nobugsonme 10721@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Not sure about the bruising.</p> <p>Ears: yes, lots of Bedbuggers experience this. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10720 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 02:45:42 +0000 goingcrazy 10720@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Well, I've met one of their PCOs today, and he really had no idea about bed bugs. He lifted up a corner of my mattress, saw nothing, and said "You probably don't have them", basically.</p> <p>It's not that I automatically distrust the landlord's PCO, it's that my roommate is giving me the impression that they're going to be reluctant to send somebody else in, but might reimburse us, which is why I'm researching them myself.</p> <p>I'm definitely hanging onto the pjs - I shouldn't have said dead bugs. What I was thinking was - if those were blood stains from me rolling over them, wouldn't there also be stains on the sheets? My sheets are totally clear. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/do-your-bites-look-like-bruises#post-10718 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 02:37:59 +0000 goingcrazy 10718@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'm still trying to determine whether or not I have bedbugs. I've been looking at some of my old bites and noticing that they look slightly purple and even hurt to the touch a bit. This isn't all of my old bites, only some of them.</p> <p>Does this sound familiar to anybody?</p> <p>Also, really random, but I just found a bite on my earlobe. Anybody ever get one there before?</p> <p>Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10716 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 02:22:05 +0000 Anonymous 10716@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>An idea might be to have the landlord's PCO inspect, and that way you ask them questions and try to get a sense of what their protocol is and whether they know what they're doing. I don't think you should assume that the landlord's PCO will be no good. Consider all your options. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10713 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 02:15:31 +0000 Anonymous 10713@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>If they could be tiny blood spots, then you add them to your inventory of possible evidence. I'm not sure that finding dead bugs on the sheets is something that is common, so please don't dismiss something based on that. Try to keep a written record, it will help and then you'll see the patterns. Don't dismiss things yet. Just note them.</p> <p>No, the PCO that charges you for an inspection cannot expect that you will hire them. Don't worry about that. I'm not really sure about the quotes, you should call other companies in the area so that you are able to compare. Fees tend to vary by location, company, etc. Ask them how long they expect the inspection to take. If it is a very thorough, patient inspection, then the fee is worth it. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10712 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 01:00:46 +0000 goingcrazy 10712@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>The above PCO didn't seem too worried about the other apartments in my building. I really have some qualms about this group. They seemed set on believing it was bed bugs just talking on the phone with me, and once again in person. This is keeping in mind that I have virtually no evidence - I have things that are suggestive, but that's it. But they could be right. (I just found some tiny red/gold stains on the outside of my pajamas, but they're inexplicable - no dead bugs on my sheets, no new bites on my legs. So those might not mean anything.) </p> <p>This PCO and another I talked to each charged roughly $125-$150 for an inspection. Do you think I can find better? If a PCO does an inspection and finds something, wouldn't they expect me to hire them?</p> <p>I did ask all of the questions from the FAQ, but it seems like each one has their own pros and cons, you know? </p> <p>My roommate expresses disdain for the management company (I've never dealt with them really), which is why I'm already looking into outside PCOs. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10711 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 00:49:11 +0000 goingcrazy 10711@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Will do, thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10707 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 00:39:53 +0000 Anonymous 10707@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Well, step by step. The inspection is the first priority.</p> <p>We've heard from other PCOs who tell us they would never say "bedbugs!" based on the appearance of bites. They vary from person to person and, more important, may be caused by something other than bedbugs. That, coupled with outright bragging about getting rid of bedbugs in one visit, which would be a feat indeed, would not be reassuring to me. But maybe the generous interpretation is that it's just his act, meant to inspire confidence. I would interview others too, can't hurt.</p> <p>As a reference point, a lot of PCOs will not even treat a home where they find no evidence of bedbugs, despite evidence of "bites." So many people are at pains to find evidence and actual bugs precisely for this reason.</p> <p>I really hope that your apartment building management arranges for your PCO, for several reasons. One is that the apartments adjacent to yours should be inspected and, if also infested, treated at the same time to ensure that your treatment is successful. </p> <p>For people who have to hire their own PCOs for whatever reason, interviewing several companies is recommended. When you don't have a specific PCO recommendation where you live you need to interview several PCOs and go with the one that best answers all your questions. The FAQ indicates what those questions should be. One of the big ones is the treatment interval schedule. The recommendation is that treatments should take place every two weeks until the infestation is eradicated, not after 30 days or "if you see more bugs."</p> <p>I know finding a good PCO is very difficult sometimes but it has to be done. </p> <p>The inspection is usually free or low cost; pretty much the only criteria for that is that the PCO be very experienced with bedbugs. So concentrate on finding a knowledgeable PCO to inspect your apartment, and then go from there. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10701 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 23:12:49 +0000 Nobugsonme 10701@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>the link works now--it had a period after html which is why it did not work. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10699 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 22:28:26 +0000 goingcrazy 10699@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Bencannon,</p> <p>How much did M&#38;M charge you? What's this unique approach? Any sort of guarantee? I'm shopping around for PCOs and really don't know who to choose. I've looked at Pest Away and Bugoff so far. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10698 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 22:16:37 +0000 Bencannon 10698@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Yes, you can also go to <a href="http://www.thevillager.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.thevillager.com</a>. Type bedbug in the search and latest article wll come up. Good luck nyjammin! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10692 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 21:07:39 +0000 goingcrazy 10692@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Nyjammin - just delete the period at the end of "html" </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10689 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 20:18:53 +0000 nyjammin 10689@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Bencannon, when I click on the link about the article in the Villager, it comes up as Web Page Not Found. Is there any way that I can access it? Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10680 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 17:01:52 +0000 goingcrazy 10680@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks hopelessnomo. I live in an apartment so there's a bunch of bureaucracy to go through, but if they don't send in an exterminator, I am going to hire my own. Right now I'm shopping for a good PCO in Manhattan, and although I've read the FAQs on that, I'm still not sure which is best to go for and who to trust. I talked to a PCO with mixed recommendations today who diagnosed me as having bedbugs solely based on my bites, which don't even look like the stereotypical rows. He also told me that they usually get all of the bugs in just one visit (but they'll keep coming back afterward if I still have them). So I don't know what to make of that.</p> <p>I have nothing on my ceiling, but I've looked behind my posters. I'd say I've looked pretty thoroughly, but I'm sure I've missed some places they could be hiding.</p> <p>To make life more difficult, not only do I not have laundry machines in my building, I don't even have one all that closeby, and the closest one has limited hours. So I am inspecting clothing and items before I go out, and the next chance I get I probably will do a huge load of laundry and bag things up, but right now I'm running really low on time and energy. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10677 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 16:21:46 +0000 Anonymous 10677@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hi goingcrazy,</p> <p>Those terrible feelings are normal. We all go through the same thing. Now, the hopelessness, I want you to get rid of that one asap because, honest I tell no lie, you can get rid of bedbugs, if that's what's been biting you, sometimes pretty quickly if you act swiftly and intelligently.</p> <p>Once you take control of the situation and are busy doing tasks, then it gets better. Nothing like action to soothe your worries. When you are fighting back and not just taking it, it's a different game. Promise.</p> <p>So, I recommend you get that professional inspection as soon as possible. People who are trained know where to look and what they're looking for. They may not find anything in the very beginning stage of an infestation because bedbugs are such sneaky little suckers, but they have a better chance than you. Sometimes, if you are motivated enough and careful enough, you can inspect very well, yourself, but it's quite understandable if you don't know how to to go about it. There is no reason to do this alone. One of the things that leads to feeling in control is having the best professional help.</p> <p>Finally, since you need to investigate what is biting you and you need to keep an open mind and take careful notice of everything in your environment, I want you to please realize that bedbugs can harbor on ceiling fixtures and fans, behind frames hanging on the wall, on drapes and curtain rods, and SO many other places, plausible and implausible. And that means... right, the height of your desk is nothing to them, no obstacle at all. Sorry! In addition, you can accidentally transport bedbugs here and there on your stuff. </p> <p>I hope you get a truly experienced PCO to your place as soon as you can. </p> <p>The mattress encasings are an excellent thing to do even if you don't have bedbugs. Also, until you have an answer, you might be careful with what you wear outside your home. See the laundry FAQ and, if you feel that doing <em>all</em> your laundry right now is too daunting, you might just wash a few things, bag them, and wear them directly from the bag until you know what's what. At least, that's what I would do. You can, of course, decide to wait on acting as if you had bedbugs until you know for sure that you do. But we like to urge caution when feasible.</p> <p>I think I speak for everyone here: we hope it isn't bedbugs. Best... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10671 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 15:02:59 +0000 goingcrazy 10671@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Can anybody recommend a company that will come out and inspect the apartment for free? Should I be expecting to pay for that?</p> <p>Also, how much does BugOff and that group nightshirt recommends - Horizon - charge for one room? I read the FAQ but it's hard to know what a medium price is without having a sense of how much all of these other places are charging.</p> <p>Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10669 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 14:57:25 +0000 goingcrazy 10669@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hey Hopelessnomo - thanks. I agree with a lot of what you're saying. The only reason I say it's harder for them to get to the desk is that my "desk" is essentially a very nice board that sticks out of the wall, so it would have to climb pretty high up the wall to get to it.</p> <p>I'm going to order mattress covers tonight for the mattress and box springs.</p> <p>I had an exterminator diagnose me as having bed bugs solely based on my bites today. He has a very good reputation though - should I trust him?</p> <p>Also, I am feeling hopeless. Your name reflects that you, however, do not. How do I get over this constant feeling of dread, depression, and hopelessness? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10651 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 00:41:10 +0000 Nobugsonme 10651@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Yes--you can't diagnose bites on appearance or how they feel. The absence of bites does not even mean you don't have bed bugs. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10649 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 00:37:03 +0000 Anonymous 10649@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p><em>"I've been seeing mosquitos in my room constantly, and I want so badly to believe that they're responsible for all my bites. So far, my bites are my only evidence that I have bbs, I think. I did find some black specks, but they were only on my desk, (and it would take a lot of doing for them to get onto it) and they really could've been something else."<br /> </em><br /> Careful, goingcrazy. While it's probably just the mosquitos, and I don't want to add to your worries, I think one should not dismiss what one actually sees. Black specks are black specks, and you should take note and look to see if you find any more. If you don't, fine, but I can't think of a single place where bedbugs would have a difficult time getting onto, unless, as a PCO who participates here put it, it hovers off the ground and has an umbrella. A desk is just furniture, not really off-limits to bedbugs at all.</p> <p>Some people have bedbug bites that don't itch much and/or don't itch for long. You should ask yourself if these bites and your reaction to them are similar to other mosquito bites you've had in the past. </p> <p>If it were me I would take some preventative steps like encasing the mattress and box spring and inspecting and cleaning the bed frame. </p> <p>Good luck. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10648 Sun, 07 Oct 2007 23:45:31 +0000 goingcrazy 10648@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Zycron - Unfortunately I only have liquid soap. But my bites aren't that itchy- I'm asking about itch to try to figure out whether my bites are bedbugs or mosquitos. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10639 Sun, 07 Oct 2007 22:51:22 +0000 Nobugsonme 10639@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Sounds like bed bugs all right. Scrubbing, as well as hot water, really can aggravate itching. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10625 Sun, 07 Oct 2007 15:18:00 +0000 Zycron 10625@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Four to five days for the itching to stop. It's been 2 1/2 weeks since I was exposed, and I still have bite marks, but the itch is gone. I remember in the height of the itching, taking a hot bath for relief. The first 57 seconds in the hot water were heavenly, then every bite started to itch furiously -- simultaneously. Did I ever have that scrub-brush going.</p> <p>Have you tried the soap? Did it work?</p> <p>Good luck. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10622 Sun, 07 Oct 2007 14:16:22 +0000 goingcrazy 10622@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks Zycron - how long did your bedbug bites itch? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10621 Sun, 07 Oct 2007 13:54:56 +0000 Zycron 10621@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Here's an easy way to relieve itching. My brother and I discovered it when we were just young lads infected with poison ivy. I recently had a bout with bedbug itch, and it worked great. Also works with mosquitos.</p> <p>Use regular handsoap (Ivory works well). Wet it, apply a coating to the itchy spot, and let it dry. A light crust will form and the itch will be gone for many hours. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10540 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 20:19:05 +0000 goingcrazy 10540@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Yeah, I know about that. Trust me, I've read many many websites and a lot on bedbugger about it. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10536 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 20:02:25 +0000 Nobugsonme 10536@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>goigncrazy,<br /> not to add another weird factor but just because your roommates have not felt or seen bites, does not mean they are not being bitten. people who are not allergic can be bitten and have no idea. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10531 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 18:57:44 +0000 goingcrazy 10531@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'm not really around during the day too often. I'm seeing mosquitos flying around at night. In my room, in the kitchen, in the bathroom. I'm a night owl (especially now that I can't sleep well) and I see them all night long. I've just discovered a spot they can get in through the living room.</p> <p>I should mention my AC isn't very powerful. I think my room is usually around 74 degrees with it on, if not higher. I've definitely seen mosquitos around when my AC is on.</p> <p>Also, the night of my latest bites, the window was open but the screen was down, which is why my doctor thought it could be no-see-ums.</p> <p>Nah, I'm almost positive it's not scabies. </p> <p>None of my bites are actually between the fingers - they're on the fingers themselves or on the skin between my knuckles.</p> <p>Good luck to you too. Thanks. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10529 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 18:48:23 +0000 goingcrazy 10529@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>See, I've been wearing long sleeves tucked into gloves and pants, and my pants tucked into socks, and bug spray on my face and neck, and since I've been doing that haven't been bitten. Since bed bugs can go under clothing, I'm hoping that this means it's not them.</p> <p>I had 6 bites just on the side of my hand - they hurt/itched like crazy. It's been 4 or 5 days and they've almost completely healed. I was taking ibuprofen, hydrocortisone cream, and a topical analgesic, as well as benadryl every night.</p> <p>My bites have only been on my arms, legs below the knee, hands, face, and one on my stomach, right above the hemline, so if the shirt moved up an inch in my sleep, flying bugs could've done that.</p> <p>I've been seeing mosquitos in my room constantly, and I want so badly to believe that they're responsible for all my bites. So far, my bites are my only evidence that I have bbs, I think. I did find some black specks, but they were only on my desk, (and it would take a lot of doing for them to get onto it) and they really could've been something else. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10526 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 18:33:40 +0000 persona-non-bugga 10526@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>goingcrazy, </p> <p>When I get bitten by mosquitoes, the itching and swelling start almost immediately. The swelling might get worse within the hour, but there's no delayed reaction like with bedbugs. </p> <p>If you're the same way, then that means (if it IS mosquitoes that are biting you) that they're biting you at night. But you have the A/C on at night and the windows are shut. I understand the desire to downplay that, but I think it's important. I agree with buggeroff. </p> <p>You've mentioned seeing a mosquito flying around in the day. But mosquitoes pretty much shut down activity in an air-conditioned room. Sandflies and no-see-ums are knocked out even faster by A/C. I live in NYC, but I spend a lot of time in rural parts of the tropics. Places teeming with mosquitoes and no-see-ums. I get chewed up in the day. But at night, I sleep in an air-conditioned room with windows and door closed, and I don't get a single bite. Maybe NYC mosquitoes behave differently (?) </p> <p>If all you're seeing is one or two random mosquitoes buzzing about in the day, it seems unlikely that they'd be biting you fifteen times like that in an a/c-ed room.</p> <p>Consider consulting a dermatologist in person. Could your problem be scabies? I know scabies markings show up all over the body and on grown-ups they're typically on hands, especially between fingers. You've got some reactions on your hands.</p> <p>Best of luck to you. Hope it's not bedbugs. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10523 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 18:08:05 +0000 bugalew 10523@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks G-Crazy,</p> <p>I am very lucky in the bites department. I had one awful morning early on where I woke up and my hands looked borderline arthritic- they were so bitten up, painful etc. Called my GP and she said cortisone cream and Ibuprofen. Sometimes on forearms but I was generally bitten on the butt (seriously) even wearing leggings tucked into socks. Never the head to toe or bitten up limbs I've seen on others and in photos. Any welts dissapeared sometimes in the same day. I've felt the "crawling and creeping" at work, during the day since it started. Mine is apparently a delayed reaction based on the accumulation of the toxins in my body and out. My own experience is very low key so my sympathies to all who have it any worse. I am now grateful to be on prescribed daytime anti-itch med, a night time anti-itch med and an anti itch cream. During the actual biting section of the story, I was all about tea tree and peppermint oils before bed etc. Now all attention to my skin is based on "unscented",<br /> "sensitive"- basically all Dove/all the time. Any question about it, I would see a doctor/dermatologist. I'm annoyed w/myself for not seeing one sooner. Ya live, ya learn. Take care. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10516 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 16:43:12 +0000 Nobugsonme 10516@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>What's that company called, Nightshirt? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10513 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 15:48:21 +0000 nightshirt 10513@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>718-338-1447 ask for john. i think the y are in LIC. end of last year they were $400 for whole apt X3-4 times. did the trick. of course i had to prepare the apt. but they work. john should anwer the phone. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10494 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 12:57:26 +0000 skeevedout 10494@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>where in NYC?</p> <p>BugOff in the Bronx is excellent. I think they do Bronx and Manhattan. Andy Linares knows his bb stuff. If you google him, it'll come up. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/good-pco-recommendation#post-10470 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 08:53:29 +0000 meliss1a 10470@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I am in NYC - can anyone recommend a good PC Company? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10447 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 20:14:58 +0000 goingcrazy 10447@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hey Bugalew,</p> <p>I'm really sorry to hear that. Right now I am pretty paranoid and am getting phantom itches all the time because I'm so worried and nervous.</p> <p>When you had the actual bites, how long did they take to heal? How long were they itchy for?</p> <p>Thanks! I hope your situation gets better soon. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10445 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 20:11:38 +0000 goingcrazy 10445@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I still don't understand what you're saying about the A/C, but mine is usually off during the day and on at night.</p> <p>"If you're getting bitten and you know your windows have been shut, bed bugs start to look more like a possibility."</p> <p>Normally I'd agree, but I'm constantly seeing mosquitos flying around in here, so they're clearly finding a way in. </p> <p>I have a somewhat powerful desk lamp. Tonight I'll hunt around with it. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10440 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 18:08:46 +0000 bugalew 10440@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I've had 3.5 (don't ask) treatments over 6 weeks. Haven't had an actual bite in over 2 weeks. However, while at work I feel like I'm getting bitten over my entire body and have been waking up at the bug witching hours- 3-5:30am- all agitated like I'm getting bit. It actually hurts at times although I know there is nothing on me particularly at work. After two nights of interrupted sleep, I saw a dermatologist yesterday. She said A)I can't tell you how many people I've seen in here because of bedbugs. B) You are having an allergic reaction to the toxins left in your body. C) We start a treatment now but this could go on for another month or two.</p> <p>Listen-It's not the bugs themselves but this certainly is the gift that keeps giving. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10439 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 17:29:42 +0000 buggeroff 10439@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>The reason I was asking about A/C is that when you run it, the glass part of the window is closed, not just the screens. I get midges in through my screens, too, and the occasional mosquito, but not when the A/C is on.</p> <p>If you're getting bitten and you know your windows have been shut, bed bugs start to look more like a possibility.</p> <p>Any chance you could pick a small halogen work lamp at HD or something? You really need to be able to see if you're going BB hunting. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10433 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 15:12:09 +0000 goingcrazy 10433@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>The roommates did travel a bit, but they're never, ever, in my room and they're not getting bitten. Plus, the travel was already a long time ago. No sleepover guests, no new furniture. We did get a tshirt and a totebag at a charity flea market, but they were carried around all day and I feel like the chances of them carrying anything into the apartment after being lugged around like that are pretty slim, though definitely not impossible.</p> <p>I'm not sure why you're suggesting using air-conditioning, can you please explain? For the most part I have been doing so, and have gotten bites while using it. I've also gotten bites when I had my window open/screen closed, which is why my doc thinks it's biting midges, since they can get through screens.</p> <p>Right now as I'm sitting here, there's a mosquito stalking me.</p> <p>I have a futon/futon mattress. I have moved it, looked all around it, looked around my night stand, looked under it. The problem is that my room is filled with dark hiding spots. Still, despite all my looking, I've seen nothing, which is giving me hope. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10432 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 15:01:17 +0000 goingcrazy 10432@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I haven't caught a mosquito in the act, but I've definitely seen them about to bite me and I've swatted them away. When I'm asleep I'm terrible at swatting, it seems.</p> <p>Ok. I have one bite on my stomach, I'm guessing my shirt rolled up a couple inches in my sleep. But besides that, nothing on my back, stomach, armpit, etc.</p> <p>My bites itched for a couple of days and that's it. Right now I still have scabs from bites I got about a week ago and the ones from a few days ago, but they're obviously shrinking and healing pretty fast, and none of them really itch for more than a few seconds.</p> <p>I also wouldn't call mine raised bumps, really. I have a cluster of bites on the side of my hand (a really unfortunate place to get 6 bites), but they're not in a straight row. That sounds kinda like yours, buggeroff.</p> <p>Right now I'm hoping/leaning towards mosquitos, but I'm still not positive. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10431 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 14:58:33 +0000 buggeroff 10431@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>OK, first thing to do is think: Have you or your roommate brought anything into the apartment that could have been harboring them - antique nightstand, used chair, picture frame, something from a flea market? Think all the way back about 6 months ago. Have you or she been traveling? Been on a long train ride? Have you had any sleepover guests?</p> <p>Even if you there's nothing like that, they could be coming from a neighboring apartment.</p> <p>Do you have good windowscreens? Do yu have air conditioning? If so, use it for a week and see if you're still getting bitten.</p> <p>Where did you search? Checked the edges of the mattress and box spring? Did you take the mattress/box spring off the bed frame and inspect the frame? Pull the frame away from the wall and use a flashlight - if you only have a few BBs, they can be hard to spot, but they are not invisible. you can se them if they're there. Turn your night stand over and look at the back and bottom. Pull out the drawer and peer inside. Flas your light along the baseboard behind the bed - pull up the edge of the rug if you have one.</p> <p>Try sweeping instead of vacuuming for a week or so and see what you get. </p> <p>If you are still getting bitten, have a PCO over for an inspection and a quote. It's usually free of charge and it would be nice to know a professional also hunted and didn't turn anything up. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10430 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 14:43:44 +0000 buggeroff 10430@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Yeah, if it was bed bugs, you could very well find bites in weird places like your back, your belly, your armpit and other places mosquitoes don't generally mess with. When I get mosquito bite, the bite doesn't usually itch for more than about 24 hours. My bed bug bites took FOREVER to go away and itched for several days (like 5). The marks and the raised bumps stayed for two weeks or more. Plus all my BB bites from one night's chewing were clustered in an area maybe two inches across. Not so much 1 - 2 - 3 in a line like you always read about but stab-stab-stab-stab-stab like the thing couldn't quite find the right spot. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10423 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:33:50 +0000 goingcrazy 10423@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Well, I just called my doctor, and explained to him why I thought they would be bed bugs, and he made a very convincing case that he thought I had a combo of mosquitos and no-see-ums that got through the screen on my window - primarily because I've only been bitten on exposed skin, but also because I've seen no clues otherwise that it's bed bugs. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10421 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:24:47 +0000 bbto 10421@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I looked everywhere too in the beginning and found nothing. Then one night I saw one one the wall, a few feet from the floor. That was about after 1 month of getting bit every few days. I never saw another one again, except for what I think was a flattened dead one, it was brown and banded, about the right size, but I'm not certain it was a bed bug. I never saw any casts or feces. </p> <p>I think that's a lot of bites for mosquitoes alone, unless your place is teeming with them. In the evening have you ever caught a mosquito biting you?</p> <p>As for how long my bites lasted, I found that in the beginning they were not as itchy, maybe 2-3 days, and as time went on, new bites got increasingly itchy-- my body reacted more to them, so there was more redness as well, and I got large welts, even without scratching. Then when I scratched the welts they got even bigger. But I am allergic to many things, so that's just me. I've also had my ankle swell up to the size of a baseball from a mosquito bite for more than a week, but usually my response would not be so extreme, more like itching for a few days. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10420 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:05:15 +0000 goingcrazy 10420@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I have no indicator I have them except for the bites. I've searched. I even keep waking up in the middle of the night and checking and not seeing any.</p> <p>Unfortunately I live with other people in an apartment, so it's a bit more of a hassle... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10419 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:03:37 +0000 goingcrazy 10419@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Like I said, I've looked on the bed, sheets, my skin, the floor, the bottom of my feet....I've looked everywhere. Looking isn't helping me much. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10413 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 12:13:34 +0000 nightshirt 10413@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>id say yes they are. you dont have to see something to have them. they is sneaky, they is. read the faq's and try and find some indicator that you have them for a pco to see and then follow protocol. bag, wash, isolate etc. big big effort and deal but unfortunately it must be done this way. its like you have no choice but to succumb and do it! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10389 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 04:05:51 +0000 Nobugsonme 10389@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'd look on the bed, on the sheets, on your skin, on the floor (or bottom of your bare feet). If you do not have many bed bugs, though, there may be few signs. You can still be bitten. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10387 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 03:31:00 +0000 goingcrazy 10387@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I've caught myself scratching in my sleep, but I usually don't scratch (I'll rub around the area gently or slap, which is supposedly better.)</p> <p>Where am I looking for the little black specks? I haven't seen anything on my mattress (and I've looked numerous times) or the seams. I've looked behind paintings and under nearby furniture. I've looked at photos and signs on the website. I don't have any of the signs except bites, but from what I'm reading here, that doesn't mean I don't have them.</p> <p>I'm just trying to hear what the general experience is - if bedbug bites itch longer or take longer to heal than mosquito bites. My bites were extremely itchy for a day or two, I took some benadryl each night, and now they're not very itchy at all. So if somebody here tells me that there's no way bed bug bites that started out very itchy would heal/stop itching that fast, that would suggest mosquitos. I want to get as much information to compare/contrast as possible. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10386 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 03:16:08 +0000 Nobugsonme 10386@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Do you scratch them? That can make them last longer and itch more.</p> <p>Some last a few hours, some last for weeks. Depends on the bite and on the person. They're an allergic reaction, so it depends on your level of allergy. </p> <p>Remember to look for little black specks (like small poppy seeds or flecks of pepper) as well as other bed bug detritus. See photos of bed bugs and signs of bed bugs on bedbugger.com (links at top!) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10381 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 03:05:48 +0000 Nobugsonme 10381@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I think they actually crawl under the clothing rather than bite through it, but I am just speculating. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10378 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 02:59:48 +0000 goingcrazy 10378@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Ok, they're posted here: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14544409@N06/" rel="nofollow">http://www.flickr.com/photos/14544409@N06/</a> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-long-do-bedbug-bites-itch#post-10377 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 02:58:52 +0000 goingcrazy 10377@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'm currently trying to figure out whether my numerous bites are mosquito bites or bedbug bites (or, gulp, both).</p> <p>I've looked at tons of pictures, and mine definitely look more like mosquito bites, but as I'm reading here, they look different on everybody and it's hard to tell the difference. I haven't seen any telltale signs of bedbugs, but I know after reading this site that that doesn't mean I don't have them. I am seeing mosquitos in my apartment, but that still doesn't eliminate bed bugs!</p> <p>So my question is, how long do your bedbug bites itch for? Because my bites itch for a day or two and then stop, and I've been reading a ton of old posts and somebody mentioned bites itching for weeks, but I'm not sure how typical that is.</p> <p>I'd really appreciate any advice! Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10352 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 18:02:25 +0000 BBsBlow 10352@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I haven't been to the site lately, so do you have to put a title? I'm sure you can remove the pictures if you like as well no matter what the title. Post the link here. </p> <p>The bugs are pretty crafty when it comes to getting a meal so clothing isn't always an obstacle. When everything is covered, they tend to go for the face, which at least you have covered up! I was only bitten a couple times there. I evidently have very juicy arms because that's mainly where they got me. But within the past week I was bitten on the underside of my foot. Needless to say, I'll be wearing socks more often! They'll really go anywhere, though they're not a huge fan of hair since it's hard for them to navigate. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10351 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 17:59:15 +0000 goingcrazy 10351@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Are you saying Off works for bedbugs or mosquitos?</p> <p>Here's a link to my photos, but again, that's just a few of the bites, and they're not great pictures. </p> <p>Thanks again!</p> <p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14544409@N06/" rel="nofollow">http://www.flickr.com/photos/14544409@N06/</a> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10350 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 17:56:45 +0000 Bencannon 10350@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>That is a lot of bites for mosquitos. Definitely recommend posting the bitemarks. As for Off, it does work a little. My wife and I have used it and it does have some effect while not 100%. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10349 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 17:52:35 +0000 goingcrazy 10349@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>They're on my computer. I just don't want them going under the heading bed bug bites when I'm not sure that's what they are. But I will create an account. Once I do, how do I post them here? Just reply with a link?</p> <p>Also, I've read that bedbugs can bite through thin clothing (I'm wearing thick) but I'm saying, will they actually go under your clothing if they find a way in? I'd assume they would, but just checking. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10348 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 17:45:58 +0000 BBsBlow 10348@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>If you sign up for a Flickr.com account, you can post them there, and everyone can view them if you post a link. I am no expert with that site (understatement), but I mastered it enough that you can see my bite pictures from the main page. Are the pictures saved anywhere on your computer, or are they just on your camera? Everyone's bites look different. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10346 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 17:43:24 +0000 goingcrazy 10346@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I don't know how to post pictures - anybody care to explain? I did take some pictures, though they didn't come out all that great, but it's something. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10344 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 17:41:13 +0000 BBsBlow 10344@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Going Crazy,<br /> (Aren't we all? LOL) Unfortunately, yes, BBs can bite through clothing. Also, OFF doesn't repel the bugs. Are you able to post pictures of your bites? When I was initially bitten, I did get the 3 in a row pattern. But after that they were single bites, or just bites all over me. It does sound like BBs to me from what you're saying. I'm sure others will weigh in.</p> <p>-Blow </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-sure-if-i-have-them-please-help-me#post-10340 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 17:36:37 +0000 goingcrazy 10340@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I live in New York City, which I know is undergoing a huge bedbug spread. I checked on those maps and didn't see anyone near me with an infestation. I have read nearly every website that exists on bedbugs and mosquitos.</p> <p>About a week ago, I woke up with about 15 bites on me. They were on my arms, legs, and two on my stomach. I google imaged pictures of bedbugs and for the most part, my bites didn't look like what I was seeing. They weren't in long rows - the most I'd see together were two closeby but not touching. For the most part, they're completely scattered. They were red and itchy.</p> <p>Since then, I have been sleeping in long sleeves, pants, and socks, and covering my face, hands, and neck with OFF! Two nights ago I was exhausted and fell asleep wearing short sleeves, pants, and no bug spray, and woke up with 15 more bites. This time they were on my hands, arms, and face. I have five bites just on the side of my hand, (not in a straight line) but the rest of the bites are mostly spread out. They are all red and itchy, but some of them are swollen into hives, and one looks like a rash.</p> <p>I have looked in my apartment for the telltale signs and have found nothing. I live with another woman and her five year old son, and neither of them have noticed any bites. I have definitely seen some sort of bug, presumably mosquito, flying around my room and our kitchen. </p> <p>Furthermore, my neighbor, who has grown up in this building, tells me he always has mosquito bites, and they go away in winter (doesn't sound like bedbugs). Our rooms both face the same area - the backs of other buildings, and I'm told this is the most common place for mosquitos to breed. This lulled me into thinking it was just mosqutios.</p> <p>I also keep waking up in the middle of the night, now that I'm freaking out about the bug situation, and I haven't seen anything (and this is without turning on a light, I know they'd scatter if I did).</p> <p>What I'd like to know is, can bed bugs bite under clothing? Would a bedbug be repelled by OFF? I called a friend's PCO and he told me I am in denial, based on the amount of bites and the time of the season. He also told me that OFF would repel bedbugs, so the fact that I'm not getting bitten while I wear it doesn't mean anything. But everything I've read online has said the total opposite.</p> <p>Does it sound like bedbugs to you readers?</p> <p>I'm freaking out a bit over here. I have a hardwood floor that's filled with cracks for bedbugs to hide. As it is, I'm extremely afraid of bugs, so I'm hoping that it's just mosquitos, but if it is bed bugs, I know I need to stop it asap. I vaccuumed, even though I read here that it's not that effective. </p> <p>I'd really appreciate any help anybody can offer. </p>