Cockroaches are easily among the most hated pests in US households. Not only are they an unpleasant sight, but they carry pathogens that cause diseases. Most people think that roaches only contaminate their food, but they can also bite. A cockroach bite is not one to be ignored. It should be addressed and treated timely to prevent health concerns.

Cockroaches do not bite humans to suck their blood like mosquitoes or leeches do. They bite you around your lips, mouth, hands, and feet, where they can find some food residue. Their bites may cause minor swelling, irritation, and wound infections. However, they are unlikely to bite aggressively. Call Green Pest Services for professional help.

Do cockroaches bite?

Yes. Cockroaches bite humans, and it is possible to get bitten by them. However, among the thousands of species of cockroaches, only the German, American, and Oriental cockroaches are more prone to biting.

You are more likely to get bitten when you are asleep or unconscious. They will not attack you when you are active or awake. When they bite, they are not looking for blood but residue of food on your body’s surface.

What are the symptoms of a cockroach bite?

Here are some symptoms of a cockroach bite:

• Red and itchy bumps that are larger than a mosquito bite. They do not pose any risks except for allergic reactions.
• Skin rashes and redness as experienced with other insect bites. If you get bitten and get rashes, do not scratch the area as it may lead to an infection.
• Clusters of bumps in the area. Sometimes a cockroach bite can cause a cluster of bumps in the affected area. If you are worried, seek medical attention immediately.

How to treat a cockroach bite?

A cockroach bite can be simply treated with first aid measures. Start by washing the area with regular soap and water. To reduce feelings of itching and swelling, you can apply a cold compress. Over-the-counter creams for itches can also provide relief.

Cockroach bites are generally not serious enough to see a doctor. However, if you notice signs of infection, such as redness, pus, warmth, and worsening pain, visit your doctor immediately.

Preventing cockroach bites

The only way to prevent cockroach bites is to eliminate their presence in your house. Take the following steps:

• Maintain cleanliness to avoid attracting cockroaches. A dirty and unorganized home makes a perfect home for cockroaches.
• Store your food properly. Do not keep food uncovered in the kitchen or leave dirty dishes in the sink for a long time. Roaches are attracted to food sources.
• Seal any entry points that may be giving way to these insects. All it takes is a small crack for cockroaches to get through. Therefore, you must look carefully.
• Manage your garbage bins properly. Uncovered trash is an open invitation for cockroaches. Make sure that your garbage bins are tightly closed with lids.
• Control leaky pipes. Cockroaches and many other pests love a moist and wet environment. They find it best to quench their thirst as well as lay eggs.
• Regularly inspect your house for signs of cockroaches.