How To Tell The Difference Between Bed Bug And Spider Bites
Warning, if the nature of this article gives you the heebie jeebies, we're right there with you. But we need to discuss little critters and the bites they leave on us. Namely, bed bug and spider bites. According to WebMD, bed bugs are small, brownish creatures that live off the blood of other animals, and gulp, us humans. They are the ultimate moochers. And while they are often found hiding in your mattress or the box springs of your bed, they can also be found in your luggage, clothing, and used couches.
Onto the eight legged creatures. Per National Geographic, spiders are arachnids, and belong in a class of other skin crawling creatures such as ticks and scorpions. Both bed bugs and spiders bite. Which is why if you discover an itchy bump on your skin, you might want to find out which of the two is the guilty party so you can find the best course of treatment.
Spider bites are more a cause for concern
According to Insider, the bites of bed bugs and spiders may appear similar. But there are a few key differences to look out for. For one, spider bites are often singular. Whereas bed bug bites can be multiple bite marks, usually in a straight line down or across the skin. Another clue could be where you found the bite on your skin. Spiders often only bite once when they perceive a threat, and a mark could be anywhere on your body. Bed bug bites, on the other hand, tend to happen most on the neck, hands, face, and arms.
Bedbug SOS states you may want to be extra aware of any unusual symptoms you may be experiencing post bite. Bed bugs leave a mild itching on and around the area of the bite. If you continually scratch the bite it can lead to pus filled blisters. Spider bites can be the cause for more concern and stronger reactions. Be aware of swelling, increased pain in the area, abdominal cramps, paralysis, or sweating.
If you were able to take in the differences between bed bug bites and spider bites without scratching a phantom itch on your skin, then we are impressed. The two creature's bites may have a few noticeable differences. But they both give us the heebie jeebies.