Flea Bites Treatment Process

Parasites are known to be so mainly because they totally depend on their host by feeding on their blood for survival. One common parasite is the flea which mainly depends on dogs and cats. They are also known to attach themselves to human beings. Fleas are quite dangerous when they infest a dog, this is because in the process of sucking blood they also spread various diseases between hosts. They carry with them a number of disease and parasites causing organisms such as tapeworm larvae as well as the bubonic plague. Whenever fleas attach themselves to a host such as a dog they begin to scratch uncontrollably in some cases it even leads to hair loss. It is very crucial to follow urgent treatment measures to prevent any further health complications.

Identifying Flea Bites

It is a common occurrence to confuse flea bites with allergies or bites from insects such as ants or spiders. The first step before treatment is commenced is to carefully examine a bite for purposes of identification. Once you can ascertain that it is truly a flea bite then you can begin on your treatment process.

There are certain specific characteristics of a flea bite; on a closer look a flea bite has a puncture right at the center of the bite. This is the best way to separate a flea bite from insect bites such spiders or ants. Bites from these insects will have two puncture holes as opposed to one. Through this puncture you will be able to rule out any form of allergy.

In case of a flea bite various other things to look for include:

• There will be swelling of the skin on a specific flea bitten spot. This swelling often happens within a span of 30 minutes after a bite.
• The swelling turns red in color and becomes quite itchy
• Within a day or two the swelling often turns into a blister and in some cases a tiny wound. This can then lead to further infections due to the breakage of the skin.
• Fleas often attach themselves in some specific areas of the body. These are usually on the legs, neck. Therefore you will notice flea bites in these areas.

Treatment of Flea Bites

Pet owners are quite familiar with flea bites. However, this is not restricted to pet owners since flea bites have been found on individuals who do not own any pets. Treatment of flea bites involves different steps. To being prevent further infection by not scratching the bitten area regardless of how itchy it may become. On identification of it being a flea bite, immediately clean it up with cold water and mild soap in order to avoid any infections. Use of hot water should be avoided as it only worsens the situation. The next step would be to place ice packs on the affected area. This will help in reducing of the swelling.

Since flea bites lead to uncontrollable itchiness, to relieve this you can use calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream. In a case where itching is extreme, it is advisable to take an oral antihistamine, but should only be done after consulting with your doctor.