What should you apply to flea bites on feet? - briefly
Clean the area with mild soap and cool water. Apply a 1 % hydrocortisone cream or an over‑the‑counter antihistamine ointment to relieve itching and inflammation.
What should you apply to flea bites on feet? - in detail
Flea bites on the feet typically appear as small, red, itchy papules, often surrounded by a pale halo. Immediate care focuses on reducing inflammation, preventing infection, and alleviating discomfort.
- Cold compress – Apply a clean, damp cloth chilled in the refrigerator for 10‑15 minutes. Repeating every hour during the first day limits swelling and numbs itching.
- Topical antihistamine – Creams containing diphenhydramine (1 %) or levocetirizine provide rapid itch relief. Apply a thin layer to the affected area three times daily.
- Low‑potency corticosteroid – Hydrocortisone 1 % ointment reduces erythema and edema. Use twice a day for up to five days; discontinue if skin thins or irritation increases.
- Calamine lotion – Offers a soothing, drying effect. Spray or dab on the bite after cleaning; reapply every 2‑3 hours as needed.
- Aloe vera gel – Pure aloe (≥ 95 % concentration) supplies anti‑inflammatory compounds and moisture. Apply twice daily.
- Baking soda paste – Mix one part sodium bicarbonate with enough water to form a paste. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse. Use no more than three times per day to avoid skin irritation.
- Tea tree oil – Dilute 1 % (one drop of oil in 1 ml carrier such as coconut oil) and apply once daily. Possesses antiseptic properties; discontinue if burning sensation occurs.
- Oral antihistamine – Cetirizine 10 mg or loratadine 10 mg taken once daily can control widespread itch when multiple bites are present.
Additional measures:
- Clean the site – Wash with mild soap and lukewarm water before any topical application. Pat dry gently; avoid rubbing.
- Avoid scratching – Scratching can breach the skin barrier, leading to secondary bacterial infection. Keep nails trimmed and consider using a protective bandage if necessary.
- Monitor for infection – Redness spreading beyond the bite, pus, increased pain, or fever warrants medical evaluation.
- Allergy testing – If a topical agent causes heightened burning or rash, discontinue immediately and test on a small skin area before further use.
When symptoms persist beyond 72 hours, intensify itching, or systemic signs develop, consult a healthcare professional for possible prescription-strength corticosteroids or antibiotics.