Can Fleas Make You Break Out in Hives?
WouterHives, which are often caused by insect bites, are itchy red blotches that appear on the skin. They can occur as small spots or large, spreading welts. They can occur instantly or up to two hours after being exposed to the irritant. Because of the different ways they can appear, it is often difficult to figure out what causes them.
Fleas are oval-shaped, blood-sucking parasites that live on humans and other animals. Their wingspan is 150 times their height and they can survive without food for months at a time. Historically, fleas were one of the main carriers of the bubonic plague. Your dermatologist will ask you about your living conditions and whether you have been exposed to fleas recently.
The best way to treat flea bites is to take action before symptoms arise. Symptoms may include inflammation and fever. If you think you’ve been bitten by a flea, wash the affected area with soap and water, and apply an anesthetic cream. It’s also important to avoid scratching, which can cause an infection and delay healing.
If your hives appear suddenly, a dermatologist may want to check out your history. It may be helpful to write down your last 48 hours of exposure to a certain allergen. Doing this can help your doctor make a more accurate diagnosis the next time.
