Dealing with Bed Bug Infestations: Marty’s Story and Lessons Learned

by Marty
(Houston, TX)

Reader Question: Identifying and Addressing a Bed Bug Problem

My wife started complaining of mosquito bites one morning. This went on for about 2 weeks . I finally took her to the Dr. He gave my wife anti itch creams pills and thought it was glue something in wheat added to bread and pasta. She was instructed to stop eating these kinds of products and wait to see if the rash , bites would go away. She suffered for 2 more weeks.

One day she was making the bed and brought me a brown bug and then 8 more. I put them in a plastic cup & lid. The bugs later huge and stuck together & wouldn't let go of each other. I told my apt Mgr and she said why didn't I take her to her when my wife first had the rash, bites. I told her because your not a Doctor.

I wanted to tell her. Dumb ass. But controlled my composure. You see they want to try and do damage control and get out of any liability. I looked here on this site and after looking at the pictures I found that we had caught the same bugs. The manager said they are going to heat the apartment up and try to kill the bugs. Hopefully we'll see. If you have some of the same problems, don't wait seek help A.S.A.P.
Marty

Our Response

Hi Marty, thank you for sharing your experience. It’s clear how frustrating this ordeal has been for you and your wife, from the initial misdiagnosis to the discovery of bed bugs in your apartment. Let’s break down what happened and provide some advice to help you navigate this situation and ensure the problem is properly addressed.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Bed Bugs

Your wife’s experience with itchy bites is a common reaction to bed bugs. These bites are often mistaken for mosquito bites or allergic reactions, especially when the bugs themselves remain hidden. Here’s what to look for:

• Appearance
  of Bites: Bed bug bites are typically small, red, and itchy, often appearing in clusters or lines.
• Timing: Bites usually occur overnight, as bed bugs are nocturnal and feed while you’re sleeping.
• Other Signs: Finding live bugs, shed skins, or black fecal spots on your bedding or mattress is a strong indicator of an infestation.

The Importance of Quick Action

As you mentioned, waiting to address the problem can prolong discomfort and make the infestation worse. Here’s what you should do immediately:

1. Inform Management: Notify your apartment manager in writing about the infestation to ensure they take responsibility for treatment.
2. Document Everything: Keep a record of the bites, bugs you’ve found, and communication with the apartment manager.
3. Prepare for Treatment: Follow any instructions provided for the heat treatment, such as removing items sensitive to high temperatures or bagging up belongings.

What to Expect from Heat Treatment

Heat treatment is one of the most effective ways to eliminate bed bugs, as it kills bugs and eggs at temperatures above 130°F. Here’s how to ensure it’s successful:

• Clear the Space: Remove items that could be damaged by heat, like electronics or candles, and ensure all surfaces are accessible.
• Inspect After Treatment: Check your apartment thoroughly for any remaining signs of bed bugs after the treatment is completed.
• Monitor the Situation: Use bed bug interceptors under bed legs and continue inspecting your furniture to ensure the infestation is fully resolved.

Protecting Yourself Moving Forward

To prevent future infestations, consider these tips:

• Encasements: Use bed bug-proof mattress and pillow encasements to trap any remaining bugs and prevent new ones from settling in.
• Declutter: Reduce clutter in your apartment to eliminate hiding spots for bed bugs.
• Be Vigilant: Inspect secondhand furniture, luggage, and other items that could bring bed bugs into your home.

Marty, it’s great that you and your wife were eventually able to identify the problem and get management involved. Bed bug infestations can be emotionally and physically exhausting, but with the right steps and professional treatment, they can be resolved. Let us know if you have additional questions or updates—we’re here to help! Best regards,

Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Bed Bugs Handbook