How to treat flea bites on a person? - briefly
Clean the affected area with mild soap and water, apply a cold compress to lessen swelling, and treat itching with an over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone or antihistamine cream; seek medical care if the reaction intensifies or shows signs of infection.
How to treat flea bites on a person? - in detail
Flea bites cause small, red, itchy welts that may develop a halo of swelling. Reactions vary from mild irritation to pronounced inflammation, especially in sensitive individuals.
Immediately after exposure, cleanse the affected skin with mild soap and cool water. Pat dry and apply a cold compress for several minutes to reduce swelling. Avoid scratching, as it can introduce bacteria and worsen the lesion.
Pharmacologic options
- Topical corticosteroid creams (1% hydrocortisone) applied 2‑3 times daily for up to one week diminish inflammation.
- Oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg) taken once daily control itching and reduce histamine response.
- Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory gels (e.g., diclofenac) relieve pain and swelling when applied to the perimeter of the bite.
Home remedies
- Aloe vera gel: thin layer applied 3‑4 times daily supplies soothing moisture and mild anti‑inflammatory compounds.
- Baking‑soda paste: mix one part soda with two parts water, spread on the bite, rinse after 15 minutes; alkalinity neutralizes irritants.
- Diluted apple‑cider vinegar: dab with a cotton ball to dry out the lesion and limit bacterial growth.
Monitor the bites for signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever. Seek medical evaluation if any of these develop, or if swelling spreads rapidly, as systemic allergic reactions may require prescription‑strength steroids or epinephrine.
Prevent future incidents by treating pets with veterinarian‑approved flea control products, washing bedding in hot water, and vacuuming carpets regularly to remove eggs and larvae. Maintaining a flea‑free environment reduces the likelihood of new bites and associated skin irritation.