What’s Biting You? Thoughts on Persistent Bites and How to Solve the Mystery

by Grant
(Arkansas)

Reader Question on Causes of Bites

I have tiny bites all over the insides of my thighs and some one my bottom and legs. Mainly backs of legs and inner thighs. He bites are very very itchy and take months to heal. The itching is worse in the evening. I've checked my bed many times for bedbugs and I don't have any. I'm trying to figure out what is biting me. I don't have any pets. A few of the bites have produced welps that itch for months. I had the same problem over a year ago and went to the doctor and got some cream. Now I have bites again and some of those welts from a year ago we have reemerged- very strange.

Persistent, Itchy Bites That Won’t Heal? Here’s What We Think Is Happening

Hi Grant,
Thank you for reaching out about the persistent, itchy bites you’ve been experiencing, especially on your thighs, bottom, and legs. We understand how frustrating it must be to deal with bites that not only itch intensely but also take months to heal and reappear unexpectedly. Let’s explore some possibilities and actionable steps to help resolve this problem.

What Could Be Causing These Bites?

Based on your description, here are a few potential culprits to consider:

1. Insect Bites (Fleas, Mites, or Chiggers): Even without pets, fleas or mites can sometimes find their way into a home. Chiggers, common in grassy or wooded areas, are known to cause extremely itchy bites on warm, moist areas of the body, such as thighs and the backs of legs.
2. Bed Bugs: While you’ve checked your bed and haven’t found any evidence, bed bugs can sometimes hide in unexpected places, such as furniture, baseboards, or even behind wall hangings. Their bites often appear in clusters or lines.
3. Delayed Allergic Reaction: Some individuals experience prolonged allergic reactions to insect bites, which can cause welts and itching that re-emerge months later, even without
   new bites.
4. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema, hives, or dermatitis could mimic insect bites and cause persistent itching, particularly if triggered by allergens or irritants in your environment.

Steps to Take to Identify the Source

1. Inspect Hidden Areas: Even though your bed appears clear, check other hiding spots such as furniture, carpets, and curtains for signs of bed bugs, mites, or other insects. Look for live bugs, black spots (fecal stains), or shed skins.
2. Wash and Treat: Wash all bedding and clothing in hot water and dry them on high heat. Steam-clean carpets and furniture to eliminate any potential pests.


3. Use Interceptors: Place bed bug interceptors under the legs of your bed to monitor for activity over time.


4. Consider Your Environment: If you spend time outdoors, inspect areas such as tall grass or bushes where chiggers or other biting insects might be present. Limit skin exposure by wearing long clothing and using insect repellent.


5. Test for Allergens: Consider whether any new detergents, fabrics, or products may be causing a skin reaction that mimics bites.

Steps to Relieve the Itching

• Apply over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or antihistamine cream to reduce inflammation and itching.


• Use cold compresses or oatmeal baths to soothe the skin and minimize irritation.


• If the itching persists, consult a doctor for stronger prescription creams or oral antihistamines to manage symptoms.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re unable to identify the source or the bites continue to worsen, it’s important to consult a dermatologist or pest control professional. A dermatologist can rule out underlying skin conditions or prolonged allergic reactions, while pest control can confirm or rule out pest activity in your home.
The persistence of your symptoms suggests a possible environmental trigger, prolonged allergic reaction, or hidden pest issue. By following the steps above, you can narrow down the source and take appropriate action to find relief. Let me know if you have more questions or updates—we are here to help!
Best regards,
Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Bed Bugs Handbook