What to do when bitten by an earth flea? - briefly
Clean the bite with soap and water, then apply a cold compress and an antihistamine cream to relieve swelling and itching. Seek medical attention if the reaction intensifies or signs of infection develop.
What to do when bitten by an earth flea? - in detail
If an earth flea (also known as a springtail) pierces the skin, the first step is to cleanse the area. Rinse with cool running water and apply mild soap to remove debris and reduce the risk of infection. Pat the site dry with a clean towel; do not rub, as friction can aggravate irritation.
Next, assess the reaction. Typical signs include a small, red, itchy bump that may swell slightly. Apply a cold compress for 10‑15 minutes to lessen swelling and numb the itch. If the bite is uncomfortable, an over‑the‑counter antihistamine or a topical hydrocortisone cream can be used according to the product’s directions.
Monitor the wound for signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, pus, or escalating pain. Should any of these appear, seek professional medical attention promptly. Persistent or spreading rash, fever, or severe allergic response also warrant immediate evaluation.
For ongoing relief, follow these practices:
- Keep the bite covered with a sterile bandage if scratching is likely.
- Re‑apply a soothing lotion (e.g., calamine or aloe vera) several times daily.
- Avoid exposing the area to heat or direct sunlight, which can intensify itching.
- Wash hands thoroughly after touching the bite to prevent secondary contamination.
Prevention measures reduce future incidents:
- Wear long sleeves and pants when working in damp soil or leaf litter where springtails thrive.
- Use insect‑repellent sprays containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin.
- Maintain a dry environment around living spaces; eliminate excess moisture that attracts these insects.
- Inspect gardening gloves and footwear for hidden insects before use.
By cleaning promptly, managing symptoms with appropriate topical or oral agents, and watching for infection, most bites resolve without complications. Persistent or worsening conditions require medical review.