What do flea bites look like on hands? - briefly
Flea bites on the hands appear as tiny, red, itchy papules, frequently clustered or arranged in a line with a central puncture point. They may develop a raised welt or a slight halo of swelling around each puncture.
What do flea bites look like on hands? - in detail
Flea bites on the hands typically present as small, round papules measuring 2–5 mm in diameter. The central area often appears reddish or pinkish, reflecting localized inflammation, while the surrounding rim may be slightly darker due to a mild hemorrhagic component. Each lesion is usually surrounded by a thin, raised halo that can feel slightly itchy to the touch.
Key visual characteristics include:
- Size and shape: Uniform, dome‑shaped bumps; rarely exceed a few millimeters.
- Coloration: Red to pink core with a peripheral rim that may turn brownish as the bite ages.
- Distribution: Clusters of 2–6 bites in close proximity, often aligned in a linear or staggered pattern reflecting the flea’s movement across the skin.
- Surface texture: Slightly raised, smooth surface; occasional central punctum where the flea’s mouthparts penetrated.
- Temporal changes: Initial redness peaks within 12–24 hours, then fades to a lighter pink or pale hue over several days; occasional residual hyperpigmentation may persist for weeks.
Accompanying symptoms may involve mild pruritus, a burning sensation, or a fleeting swelling of the surrounding tissue. In some individuals, especially those with heightened sensitivity, a larger wheal may develop, accompanied by a more pronounced erythema. The reaction generally resolves without scarring unless secondary infection occurs from scratching.