If an individual gets bitten by a flea, it can be painful and itchy. Any home can become infested with fleas if there are several pets and they will not only target animals as they prey, but also humans. Fleas also bite humans for food. Always make sure that you know how to identify and treat flea bites as soon as possible to prevent exposure to disease and avoid irritation.
Appearance of a flea bite
You will notice a flea bite initially due to its small size. The flea bites are not readily noticeable among those who have brown, pinkish or red-toned skin unlike with those who have pale or fair skin. Always remember that a flea bite typically presents itself as a small-sized pink or red dot that is no larger than a head of a sharpened pencil. In most cases, the bite is flat on the skin and can cause mild itchiness and discomfort.
Possible bodily reactions to flea bites
In some individuals, they suffer from an allergy to flea bites and other parasitic insects. Take note that this allergic reaction can lead to the inflammation of the area around the flea bite accompanied by an itchy rash that spreads to the surrounding skin, hives and swelling of the throat and tongue. It is important to seek emergency care right away if these signs of a severe allergic reaction manifest. Always remember that these symptoms indicate that the body reacts poorly to the chemicals that are present once a flea bites.
Treatment of flea bites
Flea bites can be treated just like in any type of insect bite. You have to wash the area thoroughly using an antibacterial soap and then apply an anti-itch cream in order to relieve the inflammation and itchiness.
The moment the cream completely soaks into the skin, apply calamine lotion on the affected area. You have to repeat this procedure until the flea bite completely disappears and the skin does not show any redness and itchiness. You can easily perform this first aid measure at home for flea bites.
How to prevent flea bites
You can easily avoid flea bites by taking into considerations measures to keep your pets free from fleas. Pets must be washed regularly using a shampoo specifically to eliminate fleas. You can ask a veterinarian regarding monthly flea shots or a topical flea treatment that will drive away the fleas.
Once fleas are no longer present in your pets, they will no longer bite. In case of extensive infestation of fleas, you can purchase a flea bomb that you can find in any hardware store to eliminate existing fleas and eggs present in the carpeting and furniture. If all the fleas are successfully eliminated from your home, it will drastically reduce the flea bites. Hiring a professional pest exterminator can effectively eliminate the fleas.