How should I treat flea bites on the body? - briefly
Wash the bite area with mild soap and cool water, then apply a topical antihistamine or low‑strength hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching and inflammation. Seek medical care if swelling, severe pain, or infection signs appear.
How should I treat flea bites on the body? - in detail
Flea bites appear as small, red, itchy papules, often clustered in groups of three. The central spot may be a puncture mark. Prompt care reduces irritation, prevents secondary infection, and speeds recovery.
Initial measures
- Wash the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Pat dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing.
- Apply a cold compress for 5–10 minutes to lessen swelling and numb itching.
Topical relief
- Use over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream or a 1 % hydrocortisone ointment; limit application to 3 days.
- For severe itching, a thin layer of calamine lotion can be spread twice daily.
- If the skin is broken, cover with a sterile non‑adhesive dressing to protect against bacteria.
Oral options
- Non‑prescription antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg, diphenhydramine 25 mg) taken once daily can control systemic itching.
- Analgesic acetaminophen or ibuprofen may relieve discomfort and reduce inflammation.
Infection prevention
- Inspect the bite after 24 hours; look for increasing redness, warmth, pus, or expanding swelling.
- If any of these signs develop, begin a topical antibiotic such as bacitracin or mupirocin, and consider a short course of oral antibiotics prescribed by a clinician.
When professional care is required
- Extensive swelling or spreading erythema.
- Persistent fever, chills, or malaise.
- Allergic reaction manifesting as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of lips and tongue.
- Bites that do not improve after 5 days of self‑treatment.
Long‑term prevention
- Treat pets with veterinarian‑approved flea control products (spot‑on treatments, oral tablets, or collars).
- Wash bedding, carpets, and upholstery with hot water; vacuum regularly and discard the vacuum bag.
- Use indoor flea sprays or foggers containing insect growth regulators.
- Wear long sleeves and trousers when in environments with known flea infestations.
Following these steps addresses immediate symptoms, reduces the risk of complications, and helps avoid future bites.