Flea bites: how to relieve itching? - briefly
Apply a cool compress and an over‑the‑counter antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream to calm inflammation and relieve itching. If the reaction worsens or lasts more than a few days, seek medical advice for stronger treatment.
Flea bites: how to relieve itching? - in detail
Flea bites appear as small, red, raised spots, often surrounded by a halo of inflammation. The lesions itch intensely within minutes and may develop a central punctum where the insect pierced the skin. Repeated exposure can lead to secondary infection if scratching breaks the epidermal barrier.
Immediate care should focus on reducing irritation and preventing bacterial entry. Wash the affected area with mild soap and cool water, then pat dry. Apply a cold compress for five‑minute intervals to constrict blood vessels and lessen swelling. Avoid rubbing or scratching, which can exacerbate tissue damage.
Over‑the‑counter options provide pharmacologic relief:
- Topical corticosteroids (1 % hydrocortisone) applied twice daily for up to three days.
- Oral antihistamines (cetirizine 10 mg or diphenhydramine 25 mg) taken once daily to block histamine release.
- Calamine lotion or zinc oxide cream to form a protective barrier and soothe the skin.
Home remedies may complement medical products:
- A paste of baking soda and water left on the bite for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- Aloe vera gel applied directly to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Diluted apple cider vinegar (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) dabbed with a cotton ball to neutralize pH and lessen itch.
Monitor the lesions for signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever. If any of these symptoms develop, or if itching persists despite treatment for more than 48 hours, seek professional medical evaluation. Persistent or severe reactions may require prescription‑strength steroids or antibiotics.