How can flea bites on humans be treated at home? - briefly
Apply a «cold compress» to the bite for several minutes, then soothe the skin with a mild antihistamine cream or a paste of diluted baking soda. If irritation continues, keep the area clean, refrain from scratching, and use an over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone ointment.
How can flea bites on humans be treated at home? - in detail
Flea bites appear as small, red, itchy papules, often grouped in clusters of two or three. The reaction may include swelling, a burning sensation, and in some individuals, a mild rash that spreads beyond the puncture sites.
Cleaning the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water removes debris and reduces the risk of infection. Applying a cold compress for 10‑15 minutes alleviates swelling and numbs the itch temporarily.
Topical agents provide targeted relief. Over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone cream (1 %) or a calamine lotion can be spread thinly over each bite. Antihistamine ointments containing diphenhydramine offer additional itch suppression. For those preferring natural options, a paste made from colloidal oatmeal mixed with water, or a baking‑soda paste (one part baking soda to three parts water), can be applied for 20 minutes before rinsing.
Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine or loratadine reduce systemic itching and inflammation. Non‑steroidal analgesics (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) mitigate discomfort when pain is present.
Additional home remedies include:
- Aloe vera gel, applied directly, to soothe skin and promote healing.
- Diluted tea tree oil (one drop in a teaspoon of carrier oil) applied sparingly to avoid irritation.
- Witch hazel extract, dabbed with a cotton ball, to dry excess moisture and calm the rash.
Preventing secondary infection requires keeping fingernails trimmed, avoiding scratching, and monitoring for signs of bacterial involvement—redness spreading beyond the bite, pus formation, or increasing pain. If any of these symptoms develop, or if an allergic reaction manifests as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, professional medical evaluation is warranted.