What should be applied to bedbug and flea bites? - briefly
Apply a topical antihistamine or low‑potency corticosteroid cream to alleviate itching and swelling from bed‑bug and flea lesions. If signs of infection appear, treat the area with an antiseptic ointment.
What should be applied to bedbug and flea bites? - in detail
When a person is bitten by bedbugs or fleas, the immediate goal is to reduce itching, inflammation, and the risk of secondary infection. The following measures are recommended:
- Clean the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing, which can worsen irritation.
- Apply a topical antihistamine cream (e.g., diphenhydramine 1%) to block histamine release and relieve pruritus.
- Use a low‑strength corticosteroid ointment (hydrocortisone 1%) for moderate swelling and redness. Limit application to 3–5 days to prevent skin thinning.
- For persistent itching, a topical calamine lotion or a 1% menthol/phenol preparation provides a cooling effect and further symptom relief.
- If the bite is painful or inflamed, an over‑the‑counter analgesic gel containing lidocaine (2–5%) can be applied for temporary numbness.
- Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine 10 mg or loratadine 10 mg, taken once daily, are effective for widespread reactions.
- Keep fingernails trimmed and consider a protective bandage if scratching is unavoidable, minimizing the chance of bacterial entry.
- Monitor the site for signs of infection—increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever—and seek medical attention if these develop.
In cases of severe allergic response, a physician may prescribe a short course of systemic corticosteroids or stronger antihistamines. Preventive steps, such as washing clothing and bedding in hot water and using insect‑specific sprays, reduce the likelihood of future bites but fall outside the scope of immediate topical treatment.