How to treat a flea bite? - briefly
Clean the bite with mild soap and water, apply a cold compress to lessen swelling, and use an over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream or oral antihistamine to control itching. Seek medical care if the area becomes increasingly red, painful, or shows signs of infection.
How to treat a flea bite? - in detail
Flea bites usually appear as small, red, raised spots surrounded by a lighter halo. The skin may itch, swell, or develop a tiny blister. Symptoms develop within minutes to a few hours after the bite and can persist for several days.
First action is to cleanse the area with mild soap and lukewarm water. Rinse thoroughly, then apply a cold compress for 10‑15 minutes to reduce swelling and numb itching. Pat the skin dry; avoid rubbing, which can irritate the lesion further.
Pharmacological options include oral antihistamines such as cetirizine or diphenhydramine to counter histamine release, and topical corticosteroids (hydrocortisone 1 % cream) applied two to three times daily to diminish inflammation. For pain, acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be taken according to label directions.
Additional supportive measures:
- Oatmeal bath (colloidal oatmeal dissolved in warm water, soak 15 minutes)
- Calamine lotion applied thinly, re‑apply every 2‑3 hours
- Aloe vera gel, thin layer, repeat as needed
- Baking soda paste (mix with water to form a paste, apply for 10 minutes)
These agents soothe itching and promote skin healing without systemic side effects.
Prevent secondary infection by keeping fingernails trimmed, discouraging scratching, and covering the bite with a breathable bandage if the area is likely to be touched. Observe the site for increasing redness, pus formation, or expanding swelling.
Seek professional medical attention if any of the following occur: rapid spread of redness beyond the bite, fever, hives, difficulty breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction. Persistent or worsening symptoms may require prescription‑strength corticosteroids or antibiotic therapy.