Flea Bites on Humans

Did you know that fleas not only affect cats, dogs, and other animals, but there are also fleas that try to feed off of humans? It is true. There is even a “human flea” species out there as well! Fleas, which feed off of the blood of their “host” can cause allergic reactions in many people and animals and it is important to treat flea bites as soon as they occur.
Usually, a flea bit on a human will form into a non-swelling, small red bump on the skin.
A flea bite on a human will normally become quite itchy and should not be scratched as it may cause bleeding.
Most flea bites will occur around the ankles as well as a bit further up the leg and may appear differently than just described for people who have allergic reactions or more to flea bites and in some cases may even be mistakenly assumed as a rash or some sort.
If you do find a flea bite, or series of flea bites, on your legs or ankles, be sure to wash the area with cooler water as to keep the itchiness to a minimum.
It is best to wash with antiseptic soaps to help reduce the risk of any type of infection. Even tea tree oil may help cleanse the area.
You may also choose to help prevent infection through the usage some topical anti-bacterial applications, as well, even though this is more often used for stings rather than insect or flea bites.
In order to reduce the swelling in the area, use a coldpak or ice bag to help reduce potential swelling which many individuals can experience.
Once the area is cleansed and swelling down, apply some hydrocortisone (1%), calamine, or other anesthetic creams to help reduce the itching that may occur.
Hydrocortisone cream is also quite effective in keeping the swelling, or inflammation, down, as well.
In addition, some other very effective bite treatments include ibuprofen gel which is actually an anti-inflammatory, but takes effect very quickly.
Also xylocaine gel 2% will provide even quicker relief from itching and pain associated with flea bites on humans as well as other insect bites.
Remember that a flea bite should show signs of improvement within days and should not worsen in redness and swelling.
If other reactions such as hives, more swelling, or allergic reactions such as shortness of breath or more should occur, it is very important that you see your medical professional or physician immediately.