Cockroaches can eat almost anything and will occasionally bite humans, though it’s rare. They don’t bite because they see us as food but because they feel threatened. If you’re bitten by a cockroach at home, it might mean you have an infestation. They could be attracted by food scents left on your skin.
### When Cockroaches Bite People
Cockroaches are generally shy and avoid humans when we’re awake. So, if you wake up with a bite, it likely happened while you were asleep. While they will nibble on dead human bodies, feeding on callused skin, eyelashes, and fingernails, they don’t usually bite living people for food.
### Health Risks from Cockroach Bites
Cockroaches don’t spread diseases through their bites like some other insects. However, they carry germs and can spread viruses through their waste. If these germs or viruses get into your body through a wound or exposure, they can cause infections.
### Symptoms of Cockroach Allergies
Allergic reactions to cockroach bites or contact typically occur because of proteins in their saliva, feces, or bodies. You might experience symptoms if you touch or inhale these allergens. Common allergic reactions include itchy skin, nose, and throat. Asthma sufferers might experience attacks if exposed to these allergens. The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis, which can lead to low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and potentially death.
### Treating Cockroach Bites
If bitten, clean the area with soap and water. If it swells, apply ice. Avoid scratching to prevent infection. Home remedies like lemon juice, tea bags, aloe vera gel, or a mix of water and baking soda can help soothe the bite. For severe allergic reactions, seek immediate medical help, especially for young children, the elderly, or those with asthma and other health conditions.