When the average person thinks of bed bugs, especially in Indiana, they are referring to the common bed bug, also known as the mahogany flat or the redcoat. There is a misconception that infestations are caused by a lack of hygiene or dirty living space, and it's just not true. The fact is that these nasty bloodsuckers are unknowingly brought back to peoples' homes from movie theaters, airplanes, hotels, and most places where people gather.

Coming into existence roughly 115 million years ago, it is believed that today’s version began as bat bugs. When humans moved into bat caves, the pest evolved. Today there are about 90 species, but thankfully, only a few feed on humans, and just one in Indiana. The common bed bug has multiple traits that make it a perfect storm of an unwanted intruder. They are active at night and attracted to us when we sleep by the carbon dioxide we exhale. During the day, they spend most of their time hidden in crevices and creases, such as on mattresses, couch cushions, and even inside books. Once they find a host, they feed until they are completely sated. Starving these creatures out is not an effective means of getting rid of them, as they have been shown to easily survive as long as 70 days without eating.

When these sneaky crawlers emerge from their hiding places at night, they are equipped with tools to keep them unnoticed. Their saliva contains a combination of painkillers and anticoagulants, making it so that their victim doesn't feel the attack and the blood meal flows easily. Signs of being bitten can happen in minutes to days and appear as small red dots in a row to full-on blisters. For those who have an allergy to the bites, reactions can be more severe, and for a lucky estimated 20% of the population, there is no reaction.

When the bug bites and their effects on people are discussed, the physical results are often the subject, but that is far from the case with bed bugs. After the bugs have been discovered is when the mental state can be affected. This can take place even after the bugs have been eradicated. Commonly reported effects are paranoia, especially related to bugs, insomnia or difficulty staying asleep, anxiety, and in extreme cases, post-traumatic stress disorder.

For most, the sight of bugs has us running to find the latest and greatest over-counter-remedy. Foggers provide very little in the way of help and can leave a dangerous residue in unwanted places. They have also been linked to home fires.

When bed bugs find their way into your home or business, by the time they are noticed it is likely that an infestation has taken root. Between the insects' penchant for hiding, their nocturnal nature, and the almost too-small-for-the-naked-eye eggs, getting rid of them needs the touch of a professional. If you live in northeast Indiana and you've got bed bugs ruining your sleep, contact Fortified Pest Control. Our top-rated service can put your mind at ease and take care of your problem quickly and efficiently.