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Bed Bug Bites Vs Eczema

Bed Bug Bites Vs Eczema

Written by: Daniel Connell · Updated on: January 19, 2024

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Key Takeaways

If you're dealing with red, itchy bumps on your skin, it's important to tell the difference between bed bug bites and eczema. Bed bug bites usually look like small red bumps in a line or cluster, while eczema shows up as dry, scaly patches that might ooze fluid when you scratch them. Bed bug bites just pop up overnight, but eczema takes a few days to weeks to develop. It's super important to figure out what's causing your skin irritation so you can get the right treatment.

Bed bug bites happen because of blood-sucking bugs, while eczema isn't related to insects at all. Getting rid of bed bug bites means taking steps to get rid of the infestation, while treating eczema involves using medication and moisturizers. Finding bed bugs means doing a really thorough inspection, but diagnosing eczema might mean getting tested for allergies. If you're not sure about where your skin irritation is coming from, it's really important to see a dermatologist for the right diagnosis and treatment options.

Sometimes, bed bug bites and eczema can happen at the same time, and that makes treatment more complicated. Having bed bugs around can make existing eczema worse or start new flare-ups, so it's crucial to handle the infestation to keep eczema under control. To keep from getting mixed up between bed bug bites and eczema, try to stop infestations by checking your living spaces, getting rid of clutter, sealing cracks, and using mattress and box spring encasements. Knowing the difference between bed bug bites and eczema by looking at how they appear, where they are on your body, when they show up, and what symptoms they cause is the key to getting medical advice for the right diagnosis and treatment.

What Steps Should I Take If I'M Unsure Whether I Have Bed Bug Bites Or Eczema?

If you're unsure whether you have bed bug bites or eczema, follow these steps:

  1. Examine your skin closely to see if the spots resemble bed bug bites or eczema. Bed bug bites usually appear in a straight line or cluster, while eczema presents as scaly patches.
  2. Pay attention to when the itchy spots occur. If they only appear upon waking, it may be a sign of bed bugs. Eczema flares throughout the day.
  3. Inspect your mattress and bed frame thoroughly. Look for live bugs, eggs, molted exoskeletons, or dark spots of dried blood. Don't forget to dismantle some furniture as bed bugs hide near where you sleep.
  4. Keep notes on when irritation occurs. This information will help a medical professional evaluate your condition.
  5. See a dermatologist for a professional examination. They can rule out other causes and provide the best course of action.
  6. If you do have bed bugs, use recommended treatments such as laundering bedding, vacuuming cracks and crevices thoroughly, and applying specialized pesticides. Avoid unproven methods that only cover symptoms.

What Are The Long-Term Effects Of Misdiagnosing Bed Bug Bites As Eczema Or Vice Versa?

Misdiagnosing bed bug bites as eczema or vice versa can lead to serious long-term effects. Patients may suffer from ongoing skin irritation and inflammation if bed bug infestations are not identified and treated. On the other hand, those diagnosed with eczema may waste time and money on ineffective treatments. To prevent these negative outcomes, patients and doctors must work closely together. Be open with your dermatologist about any potential bed bug exposure, no matter how embarrassing it may seem. Doctors should also ask thorough questions, listen without judgment, and consider bed bugs as a possible cause. Rapid identification of bed bug bites versus eczema can occur with improved communication.

Swift diagnosis is crucial because delays only help bed bugs spread. Infestations become harder and costlier to control as they grow. Avoid prolonged symptoms due to misdiagnosis by taking a proactive role in your healthcare. Honest disclosure and informed questioning of medical opinions will help you receive the right treatment quickly. Overall, open communication between patients and attentive physicians can prevent misdiagnosis and its long-term harm.

A rotated mattress, much like rotated tires, typically wears more evenly and reduces indentions or support issues.

What Are The Key Differences In Treatment For Bed Bug Bites Versus Eczema?

If you're looking for alternatives to Ashley mattresses that don't contain fiberglass, you're in luck! There are several high-quality options available.

Joybed LXP mattresses, for instance, provide a traditional feel through a blend of latex and memory foams without any fiberglass.

Bear and Nolah Natural mattresses also avoid fiberglass and opt for latex instead, making them a great choice for back sleepers who need contouring support.

If pressure relief is your priority, the Helix Midnight Luxe might be the perfect fit. This mattress is engineered for all sleep positions and uses zoned memory foam to provide just the right amount of support.

Heavier individuals can find relief on the Titan Plus, which is reinforced and fiberglass-free.

And for those who prioritize wellness, there are organic options like the Birch and Avocado Green mattresses, which not only omit fiberglass but other potential irritants as well.

Relying on rayon and polyester for fire safety, IKEA and Amerisleep mattresses prove that performance doesn't have to come with a compromise. These brands showcase how innovation can satisfy various needs, from specialty designs to affordable comfort, without unnecessary materials.

So, whether you're looking for a latex, hybrid, or all-foam design, there are plenty of fiberglass-free options available. All you need to do is find the one that's right for you and sleep soundly, knowing you've made the best choice for your needs.

What Are The Distinguishing Features Between Bed Bug Bites And Eczema?

To distinguish bed bug bites from eczema, consider the appearance, location, and timing of the symptoms. Bed bug bites appear as small, raised, red bumps or welts with a central dot, often clustered in lines or zigzags on exposed areas like the arms and legs. Eczema presents as patches of red, dry, inflamed skin that may blister, crack, or ooze severely and commonly affects skin folds like elbows, knees, wrists, and hands.

The timing of the symptoms also differs. Bed bug bites usually erupt within days of being bitten as exposure continues, while eczema is a chronic condition with flaring and remitting symptoms driven by individual triggers. The itch caused by bed bug bites feels like burning and stinging, whereas eczema itches but varies in intensity.

Additionally, bed bug evidence may include seeing bugs themselves, stained sheets, or dark spots from feces. Eczema presents no signs of infestation, requiring a careful home inspection to rule out bed bugs as the source. Comparing these distinguishing factors helps you and your doctor determine the proper diagnosis and treatment strategy.

What Are The Common Symptoms Of Bed Bug Bites Versus Eczema?

Bed bug bites and eczema have different symptoms, and understanding these differences is crucial for proper treatment. Bed bug bites often appear as small red bumps or welts in a zigzag pattern or clustered together on areas like arms, neck, face, and trunk. These bites may become itchy, swollen, and irritated, with a dark red or purple spot in the center. They can emerge minutes to days after being bitten, initially going unnoticed.

Eczema, on the other hand, presents with dry, itchy skin that feels scaly or leathery. Red, inflamed patches can ooze or crust, especially in skin creases like inside elbows, backs of knees, wrists, and ankles. The skin may become thickened, cracked, or scaly, risking raw areas from scratching. Eczema symptoms tend to be chronic, periodically flaring up. Unlike bed bug bites which are localized, the eczema rash may affect your entire body.

Distinguishing between these skin conditions is essential for appropriate treatment. If you notice multiple bites in a line after sleeping, it's likely you have bed bugs. However, if you have widespread dry patches, you may be dealing with eczema. Seeking help from a dermatologist can provide relief and prevent further irritation. Your comfort depends on proper diagnosis and treatment.

How Can I Tell If My Skin Condition Is Due To Bed Bug Bites Or Eczema?

To determine if your skin condition is due to bed bug bites or eczema, you need to pay close attention to the symptoms and patterns of the rash. Bed bug bites usually appear in a zigzag pattern, are small, red, and raised bumps that occur suddenly after sleeping. On the other hand, eczema presents as an itchy, red rash that can weep and crust, commonly found on hands, feet, elbows, or knees. The skin feels extremely dry, scaly, or cracked.

Inspect your sleeping area for signs of bed bugs, such as blood spots or molted skins. Eczema tends to flare up and subside over time, while bed bug bites are more sudden and distinct. Consider any personal or family history of asthma or allergies, as eczema is linked to these conditions.

If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a dermatologist. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend treatments tailored to your needs. Whether it's improving your bed bug defenses or managing eczema flare-ups, a dermatologist can help you identify the true source and find relief.

How Can I Prevent Bed Bug Infestations To Avoid Confusion With Eczema Symptoms?

Bed bug bites and eczema can both cause irritation, but only one directly affects the other. Bed bug bites will not cause eczema, but they can worsen existing symptoms. When you get bitten by a bed bug, your body releases histamine, which causes inflammation and itchiness. This reaction can make eczema symptoms worse by causing more redness, flaking, and cracking around the bite area.

Scratching the bite can also lead to infection, which will make eczema symptoms worse. To prevent this, you can take oral antihistamines and apply hydrocortisone cream to reduce irritation. Another way to prevent eczema symptoms from getting worse is by eliminating bed bugs from your home. You can do this by using mattress covers and targeted sprays.

Moisturizing daily is also important for preventing eczema flare-ups. A good moisturizer creates a barrier that's too tough for cracks to form. By staying on top of bed bug bites and eczema symptoms, you can help your skin stay in a balanced state.

Can Bed Bug Bites Trigger Or Worsen Eczema Symptoms?

Bed bug bites and eczema can both cause irritation, but only one directly affects the other. Bed bug bites will not cause eczema, but they can worsen existing symptoms. When you get bitten by a bed bug, your body releases histamine, which causes inflammation and itchiness. This reaction can make eczema symptoms worse by causing more redness, flaking, and cracking around the bite area.

Scratching the bite can also lead to infection, which will make eczema symptoms worse. To prevent this, you can take oral antihistamines and apply hydrocortisone cream to reduce irritation. Another way to prevent eczema symptoms from getting worse is by eliminating bed bugs from your home. You can do this by using mattress covers and targeted sprays.

Moisturizing daily is also important for preventing eczema flare-ups. A good moisturizer creates a barrier that's too tough for cracks to form. By staying on top of bed bug bites and eczema symptoms, you can help your skin stay in a balanced state.

Can Bed Bug Bites And Eczema Coexist, And How Would This Affect Treatment?

When choosing between a pocket spring and an innerspring mattress, consider your comfort and support preferences. Pocket spring mattresses feature individual springs encased in fabric pockets, offering precise and responsive support. They reduce motion transfer, making them suitable for couples or light sleepers. Innerspring mattresses have a network of interconnected springs, providing sturdy support and a bouncy feel. They have good edge support and are generally more breathable due to the open structure of the coils.

Hybrid mattresses combine elements of both innerspring and pocket spring designs, providing cushioning and contouring. Personal comfort preferences and sleep position should be considered when choosing between these mattress types. Side sleepers may prefer a softer mattress, while back or stomach sleepers might prefer firmer support. Memory foam layers provide a soft, cushy feel, while spring mattresses offer firmer support. Innerspring mattresses with sturdy coils are generally more durable than all-foam mattresses or those with lower coil counts. The comfort level of an innerspring mattress can vary based on factors such as the quality of comfort layers, coil gauge, and overall construction.

Ultimately, the choice between pocket spring and innerspring mattresses depends on personal preferences, sleep position, and budget. By considering these factors and trying out different mattress types, you can find the perfect balance of comfort and support for your individual needs.

Are There Any Specific Patterns In The Appearance Of Bed Bug Bites Compared To Eczema?

When comparing the appearance of bed bug bites to eczema, there are several key differences to consider. Bed bug bites typically appear as small, raised, itchy red bumps or welts, often in a line or cluster, and may have a dark red or purple center, resembling a mosquito bite. These bites commonly occur on exposed skin during sleep, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs, and tend to appear overnight rather than gradually over time.

On the other hand, eczema presents as dry, scaly, itchy patches that may ooze fluid when scratched. Eczema rashes have poorly defined edges and may cover a large area. The skin affected by eczema may become thickened or leathery over time. Eczema rashes develop gradually over days to weeks rather than overnight and tend to be symmetrical, unlike bed bug bites.

Bed bugs feed on blood, while eczema is not caused by an insect. Eliminating bed bugs requires pest control, while eczema is treated with medications and moisturizers. Bed bugs can be identified through inspection, while eczema may require allergy testing. A clinical evaluation is recommended for a definitive diagnosis.

Understanding these differences can help you identify the cause of your skin issues and seek appropriate treatment. While both bed bug bites and eczema can cause itchy, red skin, there are distinct differences in their appearance, development, and causes. Bed bug bites typically appear in clusters, resemble mosquito bites, and develop overnight, whereas eczema presents as dry, scaly patches that develop gradually and are often symmetrical.

Additional Content:

About X

X is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of NapLab.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, Huffington Post, Washington Post, AskMen, and She Knows. X has personally tested over 268+ mattresses and hundreds of pillows, sheets, beds, and other sleep products.

See Our #1 Researched Mattress in 2024

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References

Bed Bug Bites Vs Eczema

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If you're dealing with red, itchy bumps on your skin, it's important to tell the difference between bed bug bites and eczema. Bed bug bites usually look like small red bumps in a line or cluster, while eczema shows up as dry, scaly patches that might ooze fluid when you scratch them. Bed bug bites just pop up overnight, but eczema takes a few days to weeks to develop. It's super important to figure out what's causing your skin irritation so you can get the right treatment.

Bed bug bites happen because of blood-sucking bugs, while eczema isn't related to insects at all. Getting rid of bed bug bites means taking steps to get rid of the infestation, while treating eczema involves using medication and moisturizers. Finding bed bugs means doing a really thorough inspection, but diagnosing eczema might mean getting tested for allergies. If you're not sure about where your skin irritation is coming from, it's really important to see a dermatologist for the right diagnosis and treatment options.

Sometimes, bed bug bites and eczema can happen at the same time, and that makes treatment more complicated. Having bed bugs around can make existing eczema worse or start new flare-ups, so it's crucial to handle the infestation to keep eczema under control. To keep from getting mixed up between bed bug bites and eczema, try to stop infestations by checking your living spaces, getting rid of clutter, sealing cracks, and using mattress and box spring encasements. Knowing the difference between bed bug bites and eczema by looking at how they appear, where they are on your body, when they show up, and what symptoms they cause is the key to getting medical advice for the right diagnosis and treatment.

What Steps Should I Take If I'M Unsure Whether I Have Bed Bug Bites Or Eczema?

If you're unsure whether you have bed bug bites or eczema, follow these steps:

  1. Examine your skin closely to see if the spots resemble bed bug bites or eczema. Bed bug bites usually appear in a straight line or cluster, while eczema presents as scaly patches.
  2. Pay attention to when the itchy spots occur. If they only appear upon waking, it may be a sign of bed bugs. Eczema flares throughout the day.
  3. Inspect your mattress and bed frame thoroughly. Look for live bugs, eggs, molted exoskeletons, or dark spots of dried blood. Don't forget to dismantle some furniture as bed bugs hide near where you sleep.
  4. Keep notes on when irritation occurs. This information will help a medical professional evaluate your condition.
  5. See a dermatologist for a professional examination. They can rule out other causes and provide the best course of action.
  6. If you do have bed bugs, use recommended treatments such as laundering bedding, vacuuming cracks and crevices thoroughly, and applying specialized pesticides. Avoid unproven methods that only cover symptoms.

What Are The Long-Term Effects Of Misdiagnosing Bed Bug Bites As Eczema Or Vice Versa?

Misdiagnosing bed bug bites as eczema or vice versa can lead to serious long-term effects. Patients may suffer from ongoing skin irritation and inflammation if bed bug infestations are not identified and treated. On the other hand, those diagnosed with eczema may waste time and money on ineffective treatments. To prevent these negative outcomes, patients and doctors must work closely together. Be open with your dermatologist about any potential bed bug exposure, no matter how embarrassing it may seem. Doctors should also ask thorough questions, listen without judgment, and consider bed bugs as a possible cause. Rapid identification of bed bug bites versus eczema can occur with improved communication.

Swift diagnosis is crucial because delays only help bed bugs spread. Infestations become harder and costlier to control as they grow. Avoid prolonged symptoms due to misdiagnosis by taking a proactive role in your healthcare. Honest disclosure and informed questioning of medical opinions will help you receive the right treatment quickly. Overall, open communication between patients and attentive physicians can prevent misdiagnosis and its long-term harm.

What Are The Key Differences In Treatment For Bed Bug Bites Versus Eczema?

If you're looking for alternatives to Ashley mattresses that don't contain fiberglass, you're in luck! There are several high-quality options available.

Joybed LXP mattresses, for instance, provide a traditional feel through a blend of latex and memory foams without any fiberglass.

Bear and Nolah Natural mattresses also avoid fiberglass and opt for latex instead, making them a great choice for back sleepers who need contouring support.

If pressure relief is your priority, the Helix Midnight Luxe might be the perfect fit. This mattress is engineered for all sleep positions and uses zoned memory foam to provide just the right amount of support.

Heavier individuals can find relief on the Titan Plus, which is reinforced and fiberglass-free.

And for those who prioritize wellness, there are organic options like the Birch and Avocado Green mattresses, which not only omit fiberglass but other potential irritants as well.

Relying on rayon and polyester for fire safety, IKEA and Amerisleep mattresses prove that performance doesn't have to come with a compromise. These brands showcase how innovation can satisfy various needs, from specialty designs to affordable comfort, without unnecessary materials.

So, whether you're looking for a latex, hybrid, or all-foam design, there are plenty of fiberglass-free options available. All you need to do is find the one that's right for you and sleep soundly, knowing you've made the best choice for your needs.

What Are The Distinguishing Features Between Bed Bug Bites And Eczema?

To distinguish bed bug bites from eczema, consider the appearance, location, and timing of the symptoms. Bed bug bites appear as small, raised, red bumps or welts with a central dot, often clustered in lines or zigzags on exposed areas like the arms and legs. Eczema presents as patches of red, dry, inflamed skin that may blister, crack, or ooze severely and commonly affects skin folds like elbows, knees, wrists, and hands.

The timing of the symptoms also differs. Bed bug bites usually erupt within days of being bitten as exposure continues, while eczema is a chronic condition with flaring and remitting symptoms driven by individual triggers. The itch caused by bed bug bites feels like burning and stinging, whereas eczema itches but varies in intensity.

Additionally, bed bug evidence may include seeing bugs themselves, stained sheets, or dark spots from feces. Eczema presents no signs of infestation, requiring a careful home inspection to rule out bed bugs as the source. Comparing these distinguishing factors helps you and your doctor determine the proper diagnosis and treatment strategy.

What Are The Common Symptoms Of Bed Bug Bites Versus Eczema?

Bed bug bites and eczema have different symptoms, and understanding these differences is crucial for proper treatment. Bed bug bites often appear as small red bumps or welts in a zigzag pattern or clustered together on areas like arms, neck, face, and trunk. These bites may become itchy, swollen, and irritated, with a dark red or purple spot in the center. They can emerge minutes to days after being bitten, initially going unnoticed.

Eczema, on the other hand, presents with dry, itchy skin that feels scaly or leathery. Red, inflamed patches can ooze or crust, especially in skin creases like inside elbows, backs of knees, wrists, and ankles. The skin may become thickened, cracked, or scaly, risking raw areas from scratching. Eczema symptoms tend to be chronic, periodically flaring up. Unlike bed bug bites which are localized, the eczema rash may affect your entire body.

Distinguishing between these skin conditions is essential for appropriate treatment. If you notice multiple bites in a line after sleeping, it's likely you have bed bugs. However, if you have widespread dry patches, you may be dealing with eczema. Seeking help from a dermatologist can provide relief and prevent further irritation. Your comfort depends on proper diagnosis and treatment.

How Can I Tell If My Skin Condition Is Due To Bed Bug Bites Or Eczema?

To determine if your skin condition is due to bed bug bites or eczema, you need to pay close attention to the symptoms and patterns of the rash. Bed bug bites usually appear in a zigzag pattern, are small, red, and raised bumps that occur suddenly after sleeping. On the other hand, eczema presents as an itchy, red rash that can weep and crust, commonly found on hands, feet, elbows, or knees. The skin feels extremely dry, scaly, or cracked.

Inspect your sleeping area for signs of bed bugs, such as blood spots or molted skins. Eczema tends to flare up and subside over time, while bed bug bites are more sudden and distinct. Consider any personal or family history of asthma or allergies, as eczema is linked to these conditions.

If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a dermatologist. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend treatments tailored to your needs. Whether it's improving your bed bug defenses or managing eczema flare-ups, a dermatologist can help you identify the true source and find relief.

How Can I Prevent Bed Bug Infestations To Avoid Confusion With Eczema Symptoms?

To prevent bed bug infestations and avoid confusing them with eczema symptoms, follow these steps:

  1. Inspect your living spaces thoroughly to eliminate harborage areas where bed bugs can hide. Declutter your bedroom and seal cracks in your mattress and furniture.
  2. Install monitors under beds and sofas to catch bed bugs migrating at night. Check these monitors weekly to ensure they haven't been infested.
  3. If you find bed bugs, isolate the infested items and contact a professional immediately for whole-home treatment. Professionals will steam or heat infested areas to kill any remaining bugs or eggs.
  4. Keep your bed and surrounding floor space clear to make it easier to spot signs of bugs and prevent recurrence. Regular inspection after treatment allows early detection if needed.
  5. Properly clean and launder all bedding and clothing in hot water after an infestation to stop the spread.

Can Bed Bug Bites Trigger Or Worsen Eczema Symptoms?

Bed bug bites and eczema can both cause irritation, but only one directly affects the other. Bed bug bites will not cause eczema, but they can worsen existing symptoms. When you get bitten by a bed bug, your body releases histamine, which causes inflammation and itchiness. This reaction can make eczema symptoms worse by causing more redness, flaking, and cracking around the bite area.

Scratching the bite can also lead to infection, which will make eczema symptoms worse. To prevent this, you can take oral antihistamines and apply hydrocortisone cream to reduce irritation. Another way to prevent eczema symptoms from getting worse is by eliminating bed bugs from your home. You can do this by using mattress covers and targeted sprays.

Moisturizing daily is also important for preventing eczema flare-ups. A good moisturizer creates a barrier that's too tough for cracks to form. By staying on top of bed bug bites and eczema symptoms, you can help your skin stay in a balanced state.

Can Bed Bug Bites And Eczema Coexist, And How Would This Affect Treatment?

When choosing between a pocket spring and an innerspring mattress, consider your comfort and support preferences. Pocket spring mattresses feature individual springs encased in fabric pockets, offering precise and responsive support. They reduce motion transfer, making them suitable for couples or light sleepers. Innerspring mattresses have a network of interconnected springs, providing sturdy support and a bouncy feel. They have good edge support and are generally more breathable due to the open structure of the coils.

Hybrid mattresses combine elements of both innerspring and pocket spring designs, providing cushioning and contouring. Personal comfort preferences and sleep position should be considered when choosing between these mattress types. Side sleepers may prefer a softer mattress, while back or stomach sleepers might prefer firmer support. Memory foam layers provide a soft, cushy feel, while spring mattresses offer firmer support. Innerspring mattresses with sturdy coils are generally more durable than all-foam mattresses or those with lower coil counts. The comfort level of an innerspring mattress can vary based on factors such as the quality of comfort layers, coil gauge, and overall construction.

Ultimately, the choice between pocket spring and innerspring mattresses depends on personal preferences, sleep position, and budget. By considering these factors and trying out different mattress types, you can find the perfect balance of comfort and support for your individual needs.

Are There Any Specific Patterns In The Appearance Of Bed Bug Bites Compared To Eczema?

When comparing the appearance of bed bug bites to eczema, there are several key differences to consider. Bed bug bites typically appear as small, raised, itchy red bumps or welts, often in a line or cluster, and may have a dark red or purple center, resembling a mosquito bite. These bites commonly occur on exposed skin during sleep, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs, and tend to appear overnight rather than gradually over time.

On the other hand, eczema presents as dry, scaly, itchy patches that may ooze fluid when scratched. Eczema rashes have poorly defined edges and may cover a large area. The skin affected by eczema may become thickened or leathery over time. Eczema rashes develop gradually over days to weeks rather than overnight and tend to be symmetrical, unlike bed bug bites.

Bed bugs feed on blood, while eczema is not caused by an insect. Eliminating bed bugs requires pest control, while eczema is treated with medications and moisturizers. Bed bugs can be identified through inspection, while eczema may require allergy testing. A clinical evaluation is recommended for a definitive diagnosis.

Understanding these differences can help you identify the cause of your skin issues and seek appropriate treatment. While both bed bug bites and eczema can cause itchy, red skin, there are distinct differences in their appearance, development, and causes. Bed bug bites typically appear in clusters, resemble mosquito bites, and develop overnight, whereas eczema presents as dry, scaly patches that develop gradually and are often symmetrical.