How to treat flea bites at home? - briefly
Clean each bite with mild soap and water, apply a cold compress to lessen swelling, and treat itching with an over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone cream or oral antihistamine. Seek medical attention if redness expands, pain intensifies, or signs of infection appear.
How to treat flea bites at home? - in detail
Flea bites cause redness, swelling, and itching. Immediate cleaning reduces the risk of infection. Wash the affected area with lukewarm water and mild soap for 30 seconds, then pat dry with a clean towel.
Apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes to limit inflammation. A reusable gel pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a cloth works effectively.
Topical relief options include:
- Hydrocortisone cream (1 %); apply a thin layer three times daily for up to 7 days.
- Calamine lotion; spread evenly after each washing session.
- Antihistamine cream containing diphenhydramine; use no more than four applications per day.
- Aloe vera gel; apply liberally to soothe skin and promote healing.
Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine 10 mg or diphenhydramine 25 mg can be taken every 12 hours when itching interferes with sleep or daily activities.
If the bite develops a pustule or excessive warmth, apply an over‑the‑counter antibiotic ointment (e.g., bacitracin) and monitor for signs of infection: increasing pain, spreading redness, or fever. Seek medical attention if any of these symptoms appear.
Preventive measures reduce future occurrences:
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; discard the vacuum bag or clean the container afterward.
- Wash pet bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (≥ 60 °C) weekly.
- Treat pets with veterinarian‑recommended flea control products, following the label instructions precisely.
- Use a flea‑comb on pets each evening; dispose of captured insects in soapy water.
Maintain skin integrity by avoiding scratching. If accidental scratching creates open wounds, clean them with saline solution and apply a sterile bandage until the skin heals.
Consistent application of the above steps alleviates discomfort, minimizes secondary infection, and supports full recovery within a week for most individuals.