Where Can Fleas Bite You?
WouterFlea bites are itchy, and they may leave a puncture mark. You can get an antihistamine to relieve the pain and swelling, but if the symptoms get worse, you should see a doctor. You can also seek antibiotics if your flea bite is infected. The fleas that live in soil, carpets, and soft furnishings can live for weeks or months, so it is important to take steps to remove them before they cause serious harm to your skin.
Flea bites tend to occur on lower extremities, including the ankles and feet. They rest in bedding and carpeting, so they are within jumping distance. The bite swells and leaves a red bump. Fleas may also bite you on the arms or abdomen.
Fleas feed on blood, so they will pierce your skin to feed. They’ll also pierce your skin to reach blood vessels. Once they find a blood vessel, they’ll start sucking it. Fortunately, a flea’s salivary glands open up to release an anticoagulant to keep the blood flowing.
Fleas live in homes and are often carried by pets, but you can also get them from the wild. Adult fleas are wingless and are about a tenth of an inch long. They’re dark reddish brown to black. They have modified hind legs that enable them to jump a considerable distance. The resulting bite may cause secondary infections and itchiness.
