Understanding Flea Bites
What is it?
Flea bites are small, red bumps often found in clusters on the legs or ankles. They are itchy and irritating but usually mild. Rarely, fleas can transmit diseases.
Typical Symptoms:
- Red bump with possible discolored ring
- Itching and irritation
- Found in clusters, usually on legs/ankles
When to Manage at Home
✅ You can manage your child's flea bites at home when:
- Bites are limited to the skin
- Your child is acting normal
- No signs of infection (e.g., pus, spreading redness) or serious illness
How to Treat at Home
🏠 Home remedies for Flea Bites:
- Cool compress (ice in a wet cloth for 20 min)
- Aloe vera gel – Soothes irritation
- Oatmeal paste – Mix oatmeal + warm water and apply for 10 mins
- Honey – Dab unprocessed honey on bite and cover with bandage
- Chamomile tea bag compress – Press steeped, cooled bag to bite
Safe Medications
- Hydrocortisone 1% cream – Apply 3x/day for itching
- Zyrtec (Cetirizine) – Safe for ages >6 months for severe itch
- Tylenol or Ibuprofen – For pain or swelling
- Antibiotic ointment (Bacitracin/Polysporin) – If skin is broken from scratching
Prevention
- Check pets for fleas (look for scratching, use flea comb/shampoo)
- Wash pet bedding and vacuum often
- Treat carpets and cracks where fleas hide
- OTC flea meds or consult a vet
Recovery
- Itching may last up to a week
- Bumps typically heal in 3–7 days
- Avoid scratching to prevent infection
When to Contact Poppins
📱 Contact us again if:
- New or worsening symptoms after 48 hours
- Bite appears infected (spreading redness, pus, fever)
- Concern for disease exposure (fever, fatigue, rash, swollen lymph nodes)
- You’re unsure how to manage at home
When to Visit Your Pediatrician
🩺 Go to an in-person appointment when:
- Symptoms of flea-borne illness (fever, headache, nausea, rash, weakness)
- Bite area becomes very swollen, red, or painful
When to Go to the ER
🚨 Seek immediate emergency care if your child shows:
- Signs of allergic reaction (hives, facial swelling, shortness of breath)
If your gut tells you something is wrong, don't hesitate to reach out. Need help? Reconnect with our on-demand team of medical staff available 24/7.
