Can Fleas Get Under Your Skin?
WouterIf you’re worried that you may have fleas on your body, you should consult a dermatologist. They’ll ask you about your lifestyle and recent exposure to fleas to determine if you have a flea problem. If you do, you can take medication to kill the fleas.
Fleas are tiny parasitic insects that feed by sucking blood. They usually live on animals, but they can also bite humans. They are extremely small and appear as red lumps on the skin. You’ll likely notice them on your feet and ankles, but they can also be found on your arms, thighs, or even on your face. In severe cases, the bites can turn infected.
Fleas are reddish brown and about one-eighth of an inch long. They have flat bodies and long, spiny legs that allow them to navigate easily through your skin. Their body is covered in many spines and hairs, which help them cling to your body. A flea’s mouth is covered with small teeth that help them reach its blood meal. A flea bite will usually appear as a red line that develops into a raised bump.
Fleas can also cause allergic reactions. The saliva from a flea can irritate your skin, causing you to scratch it unnecessarily. Moreover, fleas can carry tapeworms, which can be dangerous if swallowed. This is especially true for children because they are more susceptible to ingesting a flea than an adult.
