What to do after a flea bite? - briefly
Clean the area with mild soap and water, then apply a cold compress to reduce swelling; follow with an over‑the‑counter anti‑itch cream or oral antihistamine if itching persists. Watch for increasing redness, warmth, or pus, and seek medical care if any signs of infection appear.
What to do after a flea bite? - in detail
Flea bites appear as small, red, raised spots, often surrounded by a pale halo. They may itch intensely and sometimes develop a blister or a small welt.
First, clean the area. Wash with mild soap and lukewarm water for at least 30 seconds. Pat dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing, which can aggravate skin.
Next, apply a topical antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine to reduce the risk of infection. Allow the solution to air‑dry before covering the bite.
To control itching, use one of the following:
- Over‑the‑counter antihistamine tablets (e.g., cetirizine, diphenhydramine) according to package directions.
- Topical corticosteroid cream (1% hydrocortisone) applied thinly, no more than three times daily.
- Calamine lotion or a cold compress for temporary relief.
If swelling or redness spreads beyond the bite site, or if a fever develops, seek medical evaluation promptly. Persistent lesions may indicate an allergic reaction or secondary bacterial infection, requiring prescription antibiotics or stronger corticosteroids.
Monitor the bite for 24–48 hours. Document any changes in size, color, or pain level. Keep the surrounding skin moisturized with a fragrance‑free emollient to prevent cracking.
Prevent further incidents by treating pets and the home environment:
- Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea control product to animals.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding daily; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Wash bedding and blankets in hot water (≥ 60 °C) weekly.
- Apply an environmental flea spray or fogger according to label instructions in infested areas.
Following these steps minimizes discomfort, reduces infection risk, and helps break the flea life cycle.