Final answer:
A bedbug can be identified by its small, oval, brownish body and the signs of infestation like itchy bites and fecal spots. If you find such a bug, taking prompt steps to address the possible infestation is crucial, including consulting a professional exterminator.
Step-by-step explanation:
Finding a bug in your bed can certainly be concerning, especially if there's a possibility it could be a bedbug. To determine whether it is, in fact, a bedbug, you'll want to look for certain characteristics. Bedbugs are small, oval, brownish insects that feed on the blood of animals or humans. Adult bedbugs have flat bodies about the size of an apple seed, but after feeding, their bodies swell and are a reddish color.
Signs of an infestation include small, itchy bites in a line or cluster, tiny blood smears on sheets from crushed insects, brown or black fecal spots, and a musty odor from their scent glands. Even if you haven't noticed bites, it doesn't necessarily mean they aren't present. They can hide in many places, including mattress seams, sheets, furniture, and even behind baseboards.
If you do find a bug that matches the description of a bedbug, it's important to take steps to address the issue promptly. This may include consulting a professional exterminator, thoroughly washing bedding and affected clothing, and potentially treating your home to eliminate the infestation.