Most people do not realize that some insects can live on or inside the human body. These bugs see us as a warm and safe place where they can feed, grow and even lay eggs. Some hide in our hair, some live on our skin and others go deeper into the body. They may be so small that we do not notice them but they can still cause itching rashes or other problems. It might sound scary but these insects are a real part of life. Here are 10 insects that turn the human body into their home.

10 insects that call human bodies their home including body lice, ticks, bed bugs, and more

Head lice

Head lice are small insects that live in human hair, especially on the scalp. They survive by feeding on tiny amounts of blood from the skin. Head lice do not fly or jump but they can crawl quickly from one person to another through close contact. They are most common in children but can affect anyone. Lice lay tiny eggs called nits which stick to hair strands near the scalp. These insects can cause itching and discomfort but they do not spread disease. Even though they are not dangerous, getting rid of them can take time and care. They are often spread in schools, camps, or among family members sharing personal items. Regular combing with a fine-toothed lice comb and medicated shampoos can help remove them effectively.

Source: Wikipedia

Demodex mites

Demodex mites, also known as eyelash mites, are tiny creatures that live around the base of your eyelashes. They are very small and cannot be seen without a microscope. These mites feed on dead skin cells and oils from your skin. Most people have them and never feel a thing because they usually do not cause any problems. However if too many are present they might lead to itching redness or eye irritation. Eyelash mites are most active at night when they move around the skin. Even though it sounds strange they are a normal part of the tiny life that lives on our bodies.

Source: Wikipedia

Body lice

Body lice are small insects that live in the seams and folds of clothing but come onto the skin to feed. They survive by biting the skin and sucking small amounts of blood. Body lice are different from head lice because they do not live in hair. They are more common when people cannot change or wash clothes often. These lice can cause itching and sometimes skin infections if the bites get scratched a lot. Body lice can also spread certain diseases. Keeping clean and changing clothes regularly helps to prevent body lice from living on you.

Source: Everyday health

Crab lice

Crab lice are tiny insects that live on coarse body hair like the hair around the genitals, chest or sometimes eyebrows and eyelashes. They feed by biting the skin and drinking small amounts of blood. Crab lice are smaller than head lice and have a crab-like shape which is why they get their name. These lice cause itching and irritation where they live. They spread mostly through close personal contact like during sexual activity or by sharing clothes or towels. Although they are uncomfortable, crab lice can be treated and removed with special shampoos or creams.

Source: Wikipedia

Scabies mites

Scabies mites are tiny bugs that burrow under the skin to live and lay their eggs. They are too small to see without a microscope. These mites cause intense itching and a rash because the body reacts to their burrowing. Scabies spreads easily through close skin-to-skin contact with someone who has it. The mites usually live in places like between fingers wrists, and around the waist. Scabies can be treated with special creams that kill the mites. It is important to treat both the person and their close contacts to stop the mites from spreading.

Source: News medical

Dust mites

Dust mites are tiny creatures that live in places like beds, carpets and furniture. They do not live directly on the human body but are often found close by because they feed on dead skin flakes that people shed. These mites are so small you cannot see them without a microscope. Dust mites do not bite or burrow, but their waste can cause allergies and make it hard for some people to breathe. Keeping your home clean and washing bedding regularly helps reduce dust mites and the problems they cause.

Source: Dormeo

Fleas

Fleas are small insects that usually live on animals like dogs and cats but can also bite humans. They survive by feeding on blood from their skin. Fleas are very good at jumping and can move quickly from one host to another. When fleas bite people, they can cause itching and red bumps on the skin. Fleas do not live on humans for a long time but can still be a problem if there are many around. Keeping pets clean and treating your home helps stop fleas from bothering you.

Source: pests and parasites

Bed bugs

Bed bugs are small insects that live in places like mattresses, bed frames and furniture. They come out at night to feed on human blood by biting the skin. Bed bug bites can cause itching and red spots. These bugs do not live on the body all the time but hide nearby during the day. Bed bugs can spread by moving from place to place on clothes, bags or furniture. Getting rid of bed bugs can be hard and usually needs careful cleaning and special treatments to make sure they do not come back.

Source: Wikipedia

Ticks

Ticks are small insects that live outdoors in grass, bushes and forests. They attach themselves to the skin of humans and animals to feed on blood. Ticks can stay attached for several days while they feed. Their bites can cause itching and sometimes spread diseases like Lyme disease. Ticks are most common in warm months when people spend more time outside. To avoid ticks it helps to wear long clothes and check your skin carefully after being in nature. Removing ticks quickly and properly can prevent illness and discomfort.

Source: Wikipedia

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