What does a flea bite look like on a person? - briefly
A flea bite is a tiny, red, raised puncture that may be surrounded by a pale halo and causes intense itching. Multiple bites commonly line up or cluster on the lower legs or ankles.
What does a flea bite look like on a person? - in detail
A flea bite appears as a tiny, raised red spot, typically 2–5 mm in diameter. The lesion is often surrounded by a pale or slightly raised halo and may contain a central puncture mark where the flea’s mouthparts entered the skin. Intense itching accompanies the bite, sometimes within minutes of the encounter.
The reaction develops quickly. Initial redness may intensify over the first hour, followed by swelling that can persist for several hours or days. In some cases, the spot evolves into a small vesicle that later dries and forms a crust. Healing usually occurs without scarring unless secondary infection occurs.
Variations depend on individual sensitivity. Persons with heightened allergic responses may experience larger wheals, pronounced erythema, or multiple adjacent bites that coalesce into a broader rash. Scratching can introduce bacteria, leading to pustules or cellulitis that require medical attention.
Key identifiers that separate flea bites from other arthropod bites:
- Size: 2–5 mm papule.
- Central punctum: visible entry point.
- Halo: pale or raised ring around the core.
- Distribution: clusters or linear patterns on ankles, lower legs, feet, or waistline.
- Pruritus: sharp, immediate itching.
When multiple bites appear in a “breakfast‑lunch‑dinner” line on the lower extremities, the likelihood of flea involvement is high. Prompt cleaning, antihistamine treatment, and avoidance of further exposure reduce discomfort and prevent complications.