What should you do if flea bites cause itching? - briefly
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and wash the area with mild soap, then treat with an over‑the‑counter antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching. If the reaction worsens or shows signs of infection, seek medical advice promptly.
What should you do if flea bites cause itching? - in detail
Flea bites often produce localized redness, swelling, and intense itching that can persist for several days. Prompt care reduces discomfort and lowers the risk of secondary infection.
Begin with thorough cleansing. Wash the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water to remove irritants and debris. Pat the skin dry, then apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes to diminish swelling and numb the itch.
Topical options include:
- Antihistamine ointments such as diphenhydramine cream, applied two to three times daily.
- Low‑potency corticosteroid creams (e.g., hydrocortisone 1 %) to suppress inflammatory response.
- Calamine lotion or zinc‑oxide paste for soothing relief and drying effect.
If oral therapy is required, consider:
- Non‑sedating antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine) taken according to label dosage.
- Analgesic‑antipyretics (acetaminophen, ibuprofen) for pain and fever, if present.
Maintain skin integrity to prevent infection. Keep fingernails trimmed, avoid scratching, and cover the bite with a breathable bandage if irritation is severe. Apply a mild antiseptic (e.g., chlorhexidine solution) after each cleaning session.
Seek professional evaluation when any of the following occurs:
- Rapid expansion of redness or emergence of pus.
- Fever exceeding 38 °C (100.4 °F).
- Persistent itching unresponsive to over‑the‑counter treatments after 48 hours.
- Known allergy to insect bites with history of anaphylaxis.
Adhering to these steps provides comprehensive relief and minimizes complications associated with flea‑induced itching.