Verified By Apollo Dermatologist November 30, 2021
16978Flea bites are small, discolored bumps on the skin caused by fleas consuming human blood. Fleas are wingless, small insects. They have flat bodies and are dark brown or black in color. They have six legs with strong claws on the base of their legs for gripping a host and mouthparts that penetrate the skin and feed on blood. They can jump over 12 inches because their hind legs are longer and stronger than their middle and front legs.
There are around 2,500 different flea species in the world.
Flea bites rarely have long-term consequences. For a short time, they produce mild inconvenience and irritation. The real issue with it is that they could transmit diseases that are serious.
Generally, fleas thrive on cool, wet locations with plenty of shade outside. They like to be in the vicinity of trees, leaves, tall grass, and shrubs. When animals pass through these places, fleas jump onto them. Fleas live in the ears, neck, back, and belly of dogs, cats, and other animals. They may jump off an afflicted animal and hide once inside the home. They like to hide under carpets, furniture, bedding, and floor cracks.
Fleas, both male and female, feast on blood. Baby fleas (larvae) feed on the blood-rich adult flea faeces in some flea species, particularly those that regularly afflict dogs and cats. Flea dirt is another name for flea excreta.
Fleas bite humans. The flea species that typically afflict dogs and cats, do not live on people. Humans have substantially less hair than dogs and cats. Fleas prefer animals with a lot of fur because it makes it easier for them to hide.
Flea bites show a variety of symptoms. They itch a lot, and the skin around each bite can become inflamed. Near the bite site, the individual may suffer hives or develop a rash. Scratching too much might cause more damage to the skin and possibly a bacterial infection in the bite area. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid scratching. Keep an eye out for signs and symptoms of infection, such as white-topped blisters or a rash, on the bites.
Flea bites are a little different from other insect bites. A tiny, brownish lump appears after a flea bite. Around the bite, a discolored ring may appear. They are are not as large as mosquito bites. The bite pattern and location are also distinct. Flea bites frequently occur in a line or cluster. Fleas prefer to bite the legs, particularly feet, calves, and ankles. It’s a good idea to examine pets for fleas if they are scratching more than usual and seem agitated.
The complications associated can be divided into two. They are:
The following symptoms after a flea bite require immediate medical attention:
An infection of the flea bite is caused when the person has swollen glands, extreme pain and redness around the bitten area. Fleas are also capable of carrying diseases and transmitting them through bites. Such diseases could include Spotted fever, Plague, Endemic murine typhus and Cat scratch fever.
Flea bites do not require treatment. They heal with the help of over-the-counter medications like anti-itch creams or ointments. However, if the infection does not cure, the patient is required to consult a physician.
When bitten by a flea, it is advisable not to scratch the area of the flea bite. The skin may break and gets exposed to infection. If the skin breaks accidentally, it’s recommended to keep the area clean. Wash the infected area with soap and water. Usually, flea bites last a few days. Some of the following options can be tried to get rid of the flea bite after consulting a healthcare provider.
Getting rid of the fleas can help prevent flea bites. So, it is always recommended to keep checking pets around the ears, neck, back and belly. Some of the removal options for flea are:
Mosquitoes are small insects that fly and feed on human blood to secrete saliva into the bloodstream. The bites of a mosquito look different from that of a flea bite. A small, raised bump is formed after a mosquito bite.
Bed bugs are similar to fleas in feeding off blood and secreting saliva to the bloodstream. Though bed bug bites look similar to flea bite, a distinct or zigzag pattern is often noted. Usually, bed bugs are active at night and bite the skin that is exposed while sleeping. It can bite the face, hands, arms, feet and legs.
The following are the ways to get rid of fleas at home:
Most fleas affect household pets. They harm pets more than humans at home. It is essential to maintain good hygiene at home with pets.
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March 8, 2023