What to do, how to treat flea bites? - briefly
First, wash the bite with mild soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Then, treat itching with a topical corticosteroid or an oral antihistamine and keep the area clean to prevent infection.
What to do, how to treat flea bites? - in detail
Flea bites appear as small, red papules, often grouped in clusters of three. The skin may itch, swell, or develop a halo of redness. Prompt treatment reduces discomfort and prevents secondary infection.
First, cleanse the area with lukewarm water and a mild antiseptic soap. Pat dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing, which can worsen irritation. Apply a cold compress for 5–10 minutes to diminish swelling and numb the itch.
For symptomatic relief, use one or more of the following:
- Over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone cream (1 %) applied twice daily for up to 7 days.
- Topical antihistamine gel or calamine lotion to calm itching.
- Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine 10 mg or diphenhydramine 25 mg, taken every 12 hours if itching is severe.
- Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory tablets (ibuprofen 200 mg) to address pain and inflammation.
If the bite shows signs of infection—purulent discharge, increasing warmth, expanding redness, or fever—seek medical evaluation. A physician may prescribe topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin) or a short course of oral antibiotics if bacterial involvement is confirmed.
In cases of hypersensitivity, systemic corticosteroids may be required; this decision must be made by a healthcare professional.
Prevention limits future exposure:
- Maintain regular grooming and flea control for pets using veterinary‑approved products.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery weekly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Wash bedding, pet blankets, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) weekly.
- Apply environmental flea sprays or insect growth regulators to indoor areas where pets rest.
Monitoring the bite’s progression for at least 48 hours helps identify complications early. Proper hygiene, targeted topical therapy, and appropriate systemic medication provide effective management of flea bite reactions.