Roach Rash and Other Symptoms of Cockroaches in the Home
According to the National Pest Management Association, more than half of all homes are infested by cockroaches. This percentage is even higher in homes that are situated in urban areas. These figures indicate that cockroaches are indeed a problem in many homes. And, as those who ever had experience with them know, unless they are eradicated, chances are that they will not disappear on their own.
Not only are cockroaches ugly to look at, but they are also known to trigger rashes in human beings.
If you or any of your family members suffer from asthma and other allergies, contact with cockroach saliva, feces, or even body parts can trigger serious allergies, and a painful, itchy skin rash known as roach rash.
What is Roach Rash and How is it Caused?
Roach rash, which is similar to atopic dermatitis, is an inflammation characterized by an itchy sensation that also inhibits your skin’s ability to heal. Roach rash occurs when a cockroach crawls on a person’s skin or when they come into contact with the insect’s waste. Roach rash typically happens three hours after exposure with the insect, and will often trigger an aggressive inflammatory response that leads to roach rash.
In the event that cockroaches cause roach rash on your skin, the symptoms appear as itchy red rashes which mostly develop in children. This rash is red in color and scaly in appearance, and mostly affects the face, neck, and the fold of the arms and legs. To soothe inflamed skin and reduce itching be sure to use moisturizers, anti-itch creams, allergy medicines (if needed), and oatmeal baths. Avoid itching the area. People with roach rash should check in with their healthcare provider regularly to ensure they’re using the best treatments available.
Other Problems that Cockroaches Cause
There are several other reactions that have been associated with the presence of cockroaches in the home:
- Itchy and red, watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Postnasal drip where mucus flows behind your nasal cavity and into your throat instead of the other way
- Skin rash
- Itchy skin
- Cough
- Stuffy and running nose
In the event that cockroaches are triggering an allergic reaction in someone who has asthma, the following symptoms may be experienced:
- Wheezing sound while breathing out
- Pain in the chest or chest tightness
- Difficulty in breathing
- Trouble when sleeping due to coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
If these pests do find their way into the home, controlling them is best left to the professionals who can properly treat the problem. If you suspect you have a cockroach problem, you need the help of experienced pest control technicians.
Call in the Pros to Get Rid of Pests for Good!
If you find that you are having a problem with cockroaches, or other insects, rodents, termites, or other pests and need an exterminator, call Alexandria Pest Services at 703-923-0925 to schedule a professional evaluation. We can help you get rid of these invaders in your home or office! Contact us today to learn more.
