Bed bugs are tiny, flat insects that survive by feeding on the blood of humans and animals while they sleep. These reddish-brown creatures, wingless and capable of enduring months without a meal, typically hide in cracks and crevices around beds, like mattresses, box springs, and furniture. However, they can also lurk in unexpected places such as luggage, clothing, and even books. Although they don’t transmit diseases, their bites can cause itching, redness, and sometimes allergic reactions, leading to psychological distress and social stigma.