Flea Bite - Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention

Introduction

Fleas are tiny insects that live by feeding on human or animal blood, with more than 2500 species. They are wingless insects that move around by jumping from one place to another. These can survive many environments but are most unlikely to be seen in places with low humidity and 1500 feet elevations. Fleas multiply quickly and are usually seen if a pet is at home. However, they may be in yards with tall grass and shaded areas. Once inside the house, it may enter fabric or furs, especially carpets, quilts, and beddings. Fleas can also be vectors of diseases and may spread infections to animals and humans by biting them.

What Does a Flea Bite Look Like?

Flea bites in humans look like tiny red bumps in clusters of three or four and sometimes in a line. It may appear as a scab with a light red halo around it. Depending on a person’s reaction to the bite, the redness may last a few hours to several days. The ankles, legs, and feet are the most common places to find a flea bite; it may also be seen in the armpit, groins, waist, and fold of the elbow and knees. Flea bites in animals form a small red bump, similar to humans, and are usually on the pet’s neck, belly, lower back, and the base of the tail. It is difficult to spot them underneath the fur, but a flea comb can help reveal the insect.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Flea Bite?

The most common symptoms of a flea bite include:

• Itching around the bite.

• Small red bumps.

• Irritated skin.

• A discolored ring around the bite.

• The site may become swollen, sore, and painful.

• May develop hives or rash at the site of the bite.

• Persistent scratching and damaging of the skin may lead to secondary bacterial infections.

In small children and people who are allergic, there may be severe symptoms like:

• Shortness of breath or wheezing.

• Dizziness.

• Nausea.

• Swelling of the lip, tongue, or throat.

• Chest pain.

Allergic reactions to a flea bite are rare but require immediate medical attention.

What Is the Difference Between a Flea Bite, a Mosquito Bite, and a Bed Bug Bite?

Flea bites are distinctive and appear as tiny red bumps with a discolored area around in the form of clusters or a straight line. These are commonly seen on the feet, ankles, and legs. Mosquito bites are larger bumps, can be seen anywhere on the body, and may change color over time with a dark spot in the center. Unlike flea bites, bed bug bites are seen on the upper body (abdomen or arms). Whereas bed bug bites are small red bumps in a zigzag manner, the bed bugs bite at night when the person is asleep. These insects can sometimes act as vectors and be carriers of infectious diseases; hence, an infestation would require a pest control specialist.

What Are the Complications of a Flea Bite?

Complications of a flea bite may include an allergic reaction or a secondary infection. In allergic people, flea bites may cause breathing troubles, swelling of the lip, tongue, or throat, dizziness, etc. A secondary infection may occur due to vigorous scratching, causing damage to the skin, and a subsequent infection due to the bacteria in the fingernails or surroundings. Rarely, fleas may act as vectors and spread infectious diseases to animals and humans. When a flea bites, its saliva containing the pathogen enters the host body, resulting in the transmission of the disease such as:

• Plague.

• Endemic murine typhus.

• Spotted fever.

• Cat-scratch disease.

• Parasites and tapeworms.

What Is the Treatment for a Flea Bite?

Flea bites usually go away on their own and require no treatment unless there is an allergic reaction.

However, a few practices can help if there has been a flea bite:

• Avoid scratching the area to prevent secondary bacterial infection.

• To relieve the itching, use anti-itch creams or over-the-counter antihistamines.

• Wash the area properly with soap and warm water to prohibit the risk of infections.

• Apply a cold compress or an ice pack to relieve the pain and redness.

• Apply soothing lotions on the bite to relieve the itching.

• Avoid hot showers, as they may aggravate the itching.

• In the case of children, cut children’s nails to prevent them from scratching the area.

• If a pet has fleas, consult a vet for appropriate medications.

• In case of an allergic reaction, seek medical help immediately.

How to Prevent Flea Bites?

To protect oneself from flea bites:

• Wear long-sleeved clothes and socks, as fleas usually bite on the legs and ankles.

• Use environmental protection agency (EPA) registered insect repellents.

• Treat clothes and gears using products containing 0.5 % Permethrin.

• Wear gloves when handling a sick animal.

• Avoid contact with strange animals.

• Prevent Fleas on Pets: Pets are the usual carriers of fleas into the house, so preventing fleas on the pet could help mitigate fleas from the house.

  • Bathe and brush the pet regularly.

  • Routine check for fleas.

  • Limit the pet's outdoor timing, especially in a humid climatic area.

  • Limit contact with other animals and pets which could be carriers of fleas.

  • Routine veterinary check-ups.

• Prevent Fleas in the Yard: Fleas may also be present in yards with tall grass and shaded areas.

  • Mow the yard regularly. Exposing the soil to the sun can help get rid of fleas.

  • Do not overwater, as humid conditions are favorable for fleas.

  • Remove all debris and woodpiles.

  • Treat outdoor areas used by pets, like kennels, with insecticides.

  • Keep wild animals and rodents from the house, as they could be carriers of fleas.

  • Seal all holes where a rodent can enter.

  • Garbage bins and compost cans should be tightly closed.

• Prevent Fleas in the House:

  • Clean and mop the house regularly.

  • Vacuum all surfaces, especially rugs, sofas, carpets, and other furry surfaces.

  • Empty the vacuum cleaner bag regularly.

  • Wash bedding and pet belongings regularly with soap and water.

Conclusion

Flea bites are tiny red itchy bumps, usually on the legs or ankles. These rarely cause any complications and usually go away without any treatment. Instead, use anti-itch creams, soothing lotions to relieve itching, and ice packs to reduce swelling. However, in case of an allergic reaction, seek medical help.