What to do if a bed flea has bitten? - briefly
Clean the bite with mild soap and water, then apply a topical antihistamine or corticosteroid to relieve itching and swelling. Monitor the area for increasing redness, fever, or allergic symptoms and consult a healthcare professional if any adverse signs appear.
What to do if a bed flea has bitten? - in detail
A bite from a bed‑flea typically appears as a small, red, itchy papule. Immediate care focuses on symptom relief and prevention of infection.
- Clean the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel.
- Apply a topical antihistamine or corticosteroid cream to reduce itching and swelling.
- Use an over‑the‑counter analgesic, such as acetaminophen, if discomfort is significant.
- Avoid scratching to prevent secondary bacterial infection; keep nails trimmed.
If the lesion shows signs of infection—pus, increasing redness, warmth, or fever—seek medical evaluation promptly. A healthcare professional may prescribe oral antibiotics or stronger anti‑inflammatory medication.
To prevent further bites, eliminate the source:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum mattresses, box springs, and surrounding furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Inspect the sleeping environment for adult fleas or larvae; treat infestations with an appropriate insecticide labeled for indoor use, following manufacturer instructions.
- Consider encasing mattresses and pillows in zippered protective covers designed to block arthropods.
Monitoring for allergic reactions is essential. If swelling spreads rapidly, breathing becomes difficult, or hives develop, treat as an anaphylactic response and call emergency services immediately.