Do you often find yourself scratching your skin? If so, there’s a strong chance that you may have been getting in the way of bloodsucking insects.

Mosquitoes and bed bugs are two of the most annoying pests around the world. According to a study, 91% of Americans experience mosquito bites, while 21% get bed bug bites. Dealing with them requires knowing what bit you.

There’s an easy way to recognize the difference between mosquito bites vs bed bug bites. Keep reading to learn all about the differences between these pests.

Appearance of the Bite

Both mosquito bites and bed bug bites often swell, become red, and itch for an extended period of time. Generally, mosquito bites appear as an elevated, swollen bump on the skin that is red and itchy. The bump from a mosquito bite may become itchy for days.

Bed bug bites, however, are significantly different in appearance. Bed bug bites can appear from hours up to two weeks after the initial bite.

Bed bug bites appear as small, raised bumps in a cluster on the body and oftentimes a line. Bed bug bite clusters are itchy and can sometimes look like a rash. 

How Fast the Bite Happens

Mosquito bites generally happen quickly as they require a human or animal target for a rapid blood feed followed by immediate departure. However, bed bugs require their host to be still for an extended period to locate and feed.

Mosquito bites appear within seconds of contact and can last up to a few days. Bed bug bites often appear within 8-10 hours after contact and can last up to several days.

Severity of the Itch

Itching from mosquito bites typically lasts for a few days. Mosquito bites can also cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Bed bug bites cause skin irritation, and the area around the bite can become red, itchy, and swollen. Bed bug bites are not typically accompanied by an allergic reaction.

While itching or pain from mosquito bites is usually more of an annoyance, bed bug bite itching can cause significant discomfort and disruption to daily activities. Allergy medicines and anti-itch creams can be used to relieve discomfort from mosquito and bed bug bites. 

Location of the Bite

Mosquito bites are typically found in areas exposed to the outdoors. This includes the arms, face, and neck. 

Bed bug bites, on the other hand, are predominantly found on exposed skin while a person is sleeping, such as the face, neck, arms, hands, and any other areas of the body that remain uncovered. These bites usually appear in rows, featuring a central bite and surrounded by several smaller bites.

When the Bite Happened

Mosquito bites typically occur during the day when the individual is outside. Mosquitoes get close by for a few seconds and then bite without warning.

Bed bug bites usually happen at night while the person is asleep. These bugs hide in mattress seams, headboards, and other cracks and crevices. Bed bug treatment requires professional pest control for homes to exterminate them effectively.

Know the Difference Between Mosquito Bites vs Bed Bug Bites

Mosquito bites vs bed bug bites can have similar symptoms, but a few key differences can help identify which ones you have. Mosquito bites will typically have a red bump with a semi-visible center, while bed bug bites will have 3-4 small bites in a row.

If you have been suffering from bites for a while, contact pest control. Also, talk to a medical professional for proper treatment.

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