What should be applied if bitten by fleas? - briefly
Treat flea bites with a soothing anti‑itch or antiseptic cream—such as 1% hydrocortisone or calamine—and, if needed, take an oral antihistamine to lessen itching and inflammation.
What should be applied if bitten by fleas? - in detail
When flea bites cause irritation, immediate care should focus on cleaning the skin, reducing inflammation, and preventing secondary infection.
First, wash the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing, which can exacerbate irritation.
Apply a topical antiseptic, such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine solution, to eliminate bacteria that may enter through scratched lesions. Follow with an anti‑itch or anti‑inflammatory agent:
- Hydrocortisone 1 % cream, applied two to three times daily, for mild to moderate itching.
- Calamine lotion or a menthol‑based gel, for soothing relief.
- Oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg or diphenhydramine 25 mg) taken every 12 hours, for systemic itch control.
If the bite becomes erythematous, swollen, or purulent, introduce a topical antibiotic such as mupirocin 2 % ointment, applied three times daily. In cases of extensive cellulitis or systemic symptoms (fever, lymphadenopathy), seek medical evaluation for oral antibiotics.
Maintain skin integrity by keeping fingernails trimmed short and discouraging scratching. Use cool compresses (10–15 minutes, several times a day) to further diminish swelling.
Finally, address the source of infestation: vacuum carpets, wash bedding in hot water, and treat pets with veterinarian‑approved flea control products to prevent recurrence.