What to apply to flea bites on an adult? - briefly
Apply a topical antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream to alleviate itching and inflammation, and add an over‑the‑counter antibiotic ointment if signs of infection appear.
What to apply to flea bites on an adult? - in detail
Flea bites on grown‑up skin cause localized itching, redness, and occasional swelling. Effective topical and systemic measures aim to reduce inflammation, relieve pruritus, and prevent secondary infection.
Immediate care
- Clean the area with mild soap and lukewarm water; pat dry.
- Apply a cold compress for 5‑10 minutes to lessen swelling.
Topical agents
- Hydrocortisone 1 % cream – reduces erythema and itching; apply 2‑3 times daily for up to 7 days.
- Calamine lotion – provides a soothing, drying effect; reapply as needed.
- Antihistamine ointment (e.g., diphenhydramine 1 %); helps control itch, use no more than 3 times per day.
- Antimicrobial ointment (e.g., bacitracin or mupirocin) – apply if the bite appears broken or shows signs of infection.
Oral medications
- Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen 200‑400 mg every 6–8 hours) – alleviate pain and swelling.
- Oral antihistamines (cetirizine 10 mg once daily or diphenhydramine 25‑50 mg every 6 hours) – control systemic itch.
Adjunctive measures
- Avoid scratching; use a soft bandage if necessary to protect the site.
- Keep nails trimmed to reduce skin damage.
- Wear loose clothing to minimize friction on affected areas.
When to seek medical attention
- Rapid expansion of redness beyond the bite.
- Presence of pus, increasing pain, or fever.
- Persistent symptoms lasting more than a week despite treatment.
Following these steps provides comprehensive relief and minimizes complications from flea bites in adults.