Bed bugs are tick-like parasites with round, flat bodies that resemble watermelon seeds. Their rusty color comes from their diet—blood. Although they sometimes snack on bats, pets and poultry, their primary diet is human blood. This means that these parasites can transmit blood-borne diseases from host to host.

The thought of blood-sucking bunkmates may make your skin crawl, but if you’ve got them you’re more likely to itch. Bites are usually found on the face/head, neck, arms and hands. Bites are red and may have a darker spot in the middle, and may come in small clusters or lines.

Because bed bug bites are similar to those of other insects, it can be difficult to determine whether bed bugs are actually the culprits. These nocturnal nuisances leave a literal spotty blood trail in their paths. They can also be detected by a subtly sweet, moldy smell.

Bed bugs can get in the walls, infest clothing, bedding and furniture—including your mattress, and may make a home behind your electrical sockets. Steam cleaning and laundry overhaul may help, but your best bet is to hire an exterminator. This can cost $800-$1200, but experts say it’s a worthwhile investment.

Visit ABC.com to learn more about the recent hike in bed bug cases, or go to Orkin.com to learn more about how to handle infestation.