How Bad Is It To Have Cockroaches In West Palm Beach Homes?

Problems Cockroaches Can Bring

We don't have to tell you that cockroaches are gross. When you lift a trash can and dozens of nasty insects go running, it is like a scene from a horror movie. But cockroaches aren't just gross to look at. They can present a serious threat to your health.

In fact, we're betting that you don't know half of the ways cockroaches can make you sick. Here are a few things every West Palm Beach family should know about cockroaches.

Cockroaches Spread Bacteria

Let's start with the most obvious threat. When cockroaches get into your home, they will spread bacteria around. They can go from your trash can to your stored foods in a matter of minutes. They can go from your toilet seat rim to your toothbrush in a matter of seconds.

They contaminate cutting boards, counters, dishes, silverware, packaged food, and more. This can lead to flu-like symptoms. If you have ongoing sickness in your home, your medical issues could be cockroach-related without you realizing it. Roaches are nocturnal insects that prefer to stay hidden.

Cockroaches Spread Parasitic Worms

Studies have shown that roaches pick up parasitic worms and transport them on their exoskeletons. In a recent study, cockroaches were found to have at least six distinct worms. These worms dislodge into food as cockroaches crawl around in food packages and this can lead to serious stomach illnesses.

Cockroaches Spread Pathogens

Some microorganisms are worse than others. Some have a virulence and can be infectious. There are at least seven known pathogens that can be spread by cockroaches. This is not surprising. Cockroaches live in sewers and eat human and animal feces. These are extraordinarily dirty insects.

Cockroaches Cause Respiratory Issues

As a cockroach moves around inside a home, it sheds particles from its exoskeleton. These particles can cause respiratory issues when inhaled. Recent studies have concluded that persistent wheezing and hospitalizations for asthma-related symptoms are higher in homes with cockroach infestations. The more cockroaches found, the greater the impact.

Cockroaches Cause Rashes

When a cockroach runs across the skin of a sleeping person, a red, itchy rash with swelling may occur. This is due to an allergic reaction. The first documented case of a cockroach rash was in 1943, when rashes were found after cockroaches crawled on the skin of patients. Since then, many tests have been done to show that some people have an allergy to cockroaches. If you wake up with rashes, you could have a cockroach infestation.

Cockroaches Bite

While cockroaches aren't predisposed to bite people, they are known to bite. Bites usually occur when a population gets high, and they usually happen around the mouth or eyes where dead skin can be found. If bitten, the wound is likely to swell. This is because the cockroach immediately introduces bacteria into the wound. If you wake up with a swollen eyelid or a welt on your mouth, a cockroach could be to blame.

Cockroaches Spread Chemicals

When cockroaches get into your West Palm Beach home, you may be attempted to get rid of them using pesticides. We strongly recommend that you let a licensed pest management professional treat your home.

Cockroaches are incredibly resilient insects that are able to build a resistance to chemicals. When they do, they can become a vehicle for those harmful chemicals, carrying them into sensitive locations, such as food cabinets, silverware drawers, dish cabinets, counters, cutting boards, your toothbrush, and more.

What To Do About Cockroaches

If you live in the West Palm Beach area, reach out to Native Pest Management for control of cockroaches and other dangerous pests. Our team has the training, experience, and professionalism to make sure your infestation is properly addressed. We use EPA approved products, industry-leading methods, and field-tested strategies to get cockroaches out and keep them out. Don't settle for anything less.

If you have questions about West Palm Beach home pest control or commercial pest control services, contact us today. We're here to direct you toward the right solution for your specific needs and budget. Or schedule to meet with one of our pest professionals. We'll come right to you and take a look at your problem. Our Angie's List Super Service Award-winning team is standing by to help.