How to treat flea bites? - briefly
Clean the bite site with mild soap and cool water, then apply a cold compress to lessen swelling. Use a topical antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream, consider an oral antihistamine if itching continues, and keep nails trimmed to avoid secondary infection.
How to treat flea bites? - in detail
Flea bites cause localized itching, redness, and occasionally swelling. Effective management focuses on symptom relief, prevention of infection, and reduction of future exposure.
First‑line care includes cleaning the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry, then apply a cool compress for 5–10 minutes to diminish swelling and discomfort. Over‑the‑counter topical antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine cream) or corticosteroid ointments (e.g., hydrocortisone 1 %) can be applied twice daily to control itching. Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine or loratadine are appropriate for widespread or intense pruritus; follow package dosing instructions.
If the skin shows signs of infection—purulent discharge, increasing warmth, or expanding redness—initiate antibacterial therapy. Topical mupirocin applied three times daily is suitable for mild cases; oral antibiotics (e.g., cephalexin 500 mg three times daily for 7 days) are warranted for more extensive involvement. Seek medical evaluation if fever or lymphadenopathy develop.
Avoid scratching to prevent secondary infection. Keep fingernails trimmed and consider wearing cotton gloves at night if compulsive scratching occurs.
Long‑term prevention requires eliminating the flea source. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and pet bedding daily; discard vacuum bags immediately. Wash pet bedding in hot water (≥ 60 °C) weekly. Treat animals with veterinarian‑recommended flea control products—topical spot‑on treatments, oral medications, or collars. Regularly inspect pets for signs of infestation and maintain environmental hygiene.
Summary of actions:
- Clean bite site with soap and water.
- Apply cool compress for 5–10 min.
- Use topical antihistamine or 1 % hydrocortisone twice daily.
- Take oral antihistamine if itching is severe.
- Monitor for infection; apply topical antibiotic or start oral antibiotics as needed.
- Prevent scratching; keep nails short.
- Remove fleas from environment: vacuum, wash bedding, treat pets.
These steps address immediate discomfort, reduce infection risk, and minimize recurrence.