How should I treat legs that have been bitten by fleas? - briefly
Wash the affected area with mild soap and cool water, then apply a soothing anti‑itch cream such as hydrocortisone or calamine. If swelling or irritation persists, take an oral antihistamine and keep the skin clean to prevent infection.
How should I treat legs that have been bitten by fleas? - in detail
Flea bites on the lower limbs require prompt cleansing, symptom control, and prevention of secondary infection.
First, wash the affected area with lukewarm water and mild soap. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. This removes saliva and reduces irritation.
Apply a cold compress for 5–10 minutes to lessen swelling and itching. If the skin is intact, a thin layer of over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone cream (1 %) can be used to calm inflammation. For more intense pruritus, an oral antihistamine such as cetirizine 10 mg once daily or diphenhydramine 25 mg every 6 hours is appropriate.
When the bite has broken the skin, cover it with a sterile non‑adhesive dressing to protect against bacterial entry. Keep the dressing dry and replace it if it becomes wet or soiled.
Monitor the site for signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever. Seek medical attention if any of these symptoms develop, or if the reaction spreads beyond the initial area.
Prevent future incidents by treating the environment. Wash all bedding, clothing, and pet blankets in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets and upholstery daily, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister afterward. Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea control product to pets and consider a residual indoor insecticide if infestations persist.
Maintain skin health by moisturizing the legs with a fragrance‑free lotion after the bites have healed, reducing the likelihood of chronic irritation.
Summary of actions:
- Cleanse with mild soap and water.
- Apply cold compress, then hydrocortisone or antihistamine as needed.
- Cover open lesions with sterile dressing.
- Observe for infection; consult a professional if worsening.
- Implement environmental control measures to eliminate fleas.
These steps provide comprehensive care for flea‑induced lesions on the legs and minimize complications.