Bug bites, and the itch they leave behind, can be uncomfortable and relentless. These annoying encounters with insects, whether mosquitoes, bed bugs, or fleas, may have you wondering: why do bug bites itch? Well, there’s a science to it, which we’ll explore in today’s blog. There’s no need to suffer from these itches when you can hire a pest control company in Phoenix to help keep these insects at bay.
The Science Behind the Itch
When insects such as fleas, bed bugs, mosquitoes, or ticks bite your skin, they inject saliva containing proteins that result in a mild immune response in your body. As part of this immune response, histamines are released, which are compounds that cause your blood vessels to dilate. Tissues also swell, resulting in redness, itchiness, and inflammation.
This itching sensation is a result of your body reacting to the histamines and other inflammatory chemicals that were released in response to the saliva that was deposited by the insect. This immune system response is designed to protect you from potential harm, but it can also lead to uncomfortable itching that could last for days.
Common Symptoms of Bug Bites
- Redness and swelling
- Pain or discomfort
- Itching and irritation
- Allergic reactions or transmission of diseases in some cases
Bug Bite Culprits
Check out the most common bug bite culprits and the itching sensations that come with them:
- Mosquitoes: The females inject saliva into the skin when they feed, resulting in raised, itchy bumps. Mosquitoes also carry and transmit diseases, such as West Nile Virus.
- Fleas: Flea bites can lead to small, red bumps encircled by a halo of redness accompanied by persistent itching.
- Bed Bugs: Bed bug bites show up in clusters or rows and can be very itchy due to their saliva’s anticoagulant chemicals.
- Ants: Fire ants inject venom into your skin, resulting in painful, itchy welts that can last for many days.
- Spiders: Most spiders aren’t aggressive biters, but certain species deliver venomous bites, such as the brown recluse and black widow. They result in pain, itching, and swelling.
How Pest Control in Phoenix Can Help
Effective pest control is the most important way to prevent and manage bug bites. Your Gilbert, AZ exterminator can help you implement proactive measures to deter pests from entering your home, which greatly reduces the risk of bites from insects.
Here’s how you can ensure bug bite prevention:
- Identify and Eliminate Breeding Sites: Professional pest control services in Phoenix pinpoint and eliminate breeding grounds for fleas, mosquitoes, and other biting insects.
- Indoor and Outdoor Treatments: Frontino Pest Co. offers comprehensive pest control treatments for both indoor and outdoor environments, targeting areas where biting insects may be gathered.
- Preventative Measures: You can seal entry points, repair screens, trim vegetation, and get rid of standing water to keep pests from entering your home.
Contact Your Frontino Pest Control in Phoenix, AZ
To prevent itchy bug bites, call our Arizona pest control company to keep you and your family safe from these annoying pests. Contact us at 602-338-9223 to schedule a free quote and inspection.