PHOENIX -- They're more than just a bedtime myth. Bed bugs are making a comeback in Valley homes and hotels.

"Most people don't like the idea of laying in bed at night and being chewed up," said Dean Jenny of Truly Nolen Pest Control.

The latest national statistics show a 71 percent increase in activity among the blood-sucking parasites known in scientific circles as Cimex lectularius.

Complaints from people staying in Arizona hotels, resorts and spas ranged from, "I was attacked," to "My neck, arms and legs were eaten alive."

"These are true bugs, by the way," said Bill Frank, an epidemiologist with the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Frank said there are a number of reasons for the resurgence of bed bugs.

The Valley is seeing higher numbers of international travelers who carry the parasites in from other countries.

Bed bugs are notorious hitchhikers, spreading from one location to another in a person's clothes, shoes or suitcase.

The bed bugs brought in by one traveler infest the person's hotel room and then go home with the next guest.

"Specifically, what they are looking for is a small, enclosed, tightly packed place. They like little nooks and crannies and crevices. That's where they like to hide, and areas inside of people's suitcases often form that kind of a perfect environment," Frank said.

Bed bugs often hide in the stitching of mattresses and come out at night to feed on people or pets.

They can also be found in furniture, behind picture frames or in carpets.

CBS 5's Jason Barry offered a few tips for keeping the bed bugs at bay:

• Inspect mattresses thoroughly.
• Check bed sheets for tiny brown or reddish dots.
• Look for brown spots around electrical outlets.
• Vacuum suitcases after returning from vacations.
• Bring large trash bags to wrap suitcases during hotel stays.
• Call a pest professional at the first sign of possible bed bugs.

Health experts say bed bugs do not pose any significant health risks and are not considered a carrier of disease.

Bed bug bites cause redness, irritation and possible swelling, but the symptoms should disappear in a couple of days.

Some people, however, develop allergic reactions to the bites and should seek medical attention immediately.

For more information about bed bugs and how to prevent them, visit the National Pest Management Association's Web site.