How should I treat skin from flea bites? - briefly
Clean the area with mild soap and water, then apply a cold compress to reduce swelling; follow with an over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream or hydrocortisone ointment to alleviate itching, and keep the skin dry and protected to prevent infection. If severe reaction or signs of infection develop, seek medical attention.
How should I treat skin from flea bites? - in detail
Treat the affected area promptly to reduce irritation and prevent infection. Begin by washing the skin with mild soap and cool water; this removes saliva and debris that can worsen the reaction. Pat the site dry with a clean towel, avoiding rubbing, which may aggravate inflammation.
Apply a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in cloth for 5–10 minutes, repeating every hour as needed. The cold stimulus constricts blood vessels, decreasing swelling and soothing itching.
For symptomatic relief, use over‑the‑counter topical agents:
- 1 % hydrocortisone cream or a similar low‑potency corticosteroid, applied thinly 2–3 times daily.
- Calamine lotion or a 1 % pramoxine gel to numb the skin and lessen itch.
If oral medication is preferred, an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (25 mg) or cetirizine (10 mg) can be taken every 4–6 hours, adhering to package directions. These agents block histamine release, reducing redness and pruritus.
Monitor the bite for signs of secondary infection: increasing warmth, pus, expanding redness, or escalating pain. Should any of these appear, start a topical antibiotic (e.g., bacitracin or mupirocin) and consult a healthcare professional for possible systemic therapy.
Avoid scratching, as mechanical trauma can introduce bacteria and prolong healing. Keep nails trimmed and consider wearing cotton gloves at night if compulsive scratching occurs.
Prevent further exposure by controlling fleas on pets and in the environment. Regular veterinary flea treatments, vacuuming carpets, washing bedding in hot water, and using indoor insecticides or flea traps diminish the likelihood of new bites.
Seek medical attention promptly if the reaction spreads beyond the bite site, if there is difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or if the individual has a known allergy to insect bites. These symptoms may indicate a systemic allergic response requiring emergency care.