Flea Bites on Humans

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How to Treat Bites and Eliminate the Fleas

All of us have experienced itchy insect bites at some point in our lives, and the experience can range from mildly annoying to totally maddening. Having either your pet or your home infested with fleas can lead to dozens of irritating flea bites on the owner.

What makes them itch?

The red, itchy bumps that result from a flea bite are the result of an allergic reaction to the flea’s saliva, which contains an anti-coagulant to thin the blood. The reaction varies from person to person, and depends on the relative allergy of the person bitten.

It’s best not to scratch

Although flea bites are relatively harmless, repeated scratching of the bite can result in secondary infections. It’s best to avoid scratching the flea bite itself, and treat the bites with something to relieve the itching.

Keep flea bites clean and treat them

Wash the flea bites with antiseptic soap to reduce the risk of infection. Frequent applications of ice can help relieve swelling and itching. Other remedies for relieving the itch caused by flea bites are calamine lotion, antiseptic creams (such as those used to treat sunburn), tea tree oil, and vinegar or rubbing alcohol rubbed on the bites with a cotton swab.

Some ways to repel fleas and prevent bites

There are also some natural, non-toxic methods to repel fleas, and prevent them from biting you. Both eucalyptus and lavender oil are said to repel fleas. You can also boil lemon peels in water, and apply when cooled.

If you don’t want flea bites, get rid of the fleas

The only effective way to prevent flea bites is to get rid of the fleas themselves. This website is designed to give you a broad understanding of flea control. For best results, be sure to treat your pets, if you have them, and your home as well. Ridding your pet of fleas won’t do any good if the eggs and larva are still in your home.