Telling the difference between flea and bed bug bites can be challenging. Mysterious red bumps generally grab attention and cause numerous thoughts to race through your mind. Knowing the difference between the two has some very important implications.
Fleas and beg bugs can be found anywhere and those who travel frequently are likely to get bitten at some point. Both insects cause red bumps to appear on the skin after a bite. The legs are arms are most affected, but bites can occur anywhere on the body. This article will provide a comprehensive guide for differentiating flea bites and bed bug bites.
1. Fleas vs. Bed Bugs
Appearances |
Location |
Disease |
|
---|---|---|---|
Fleas |
Wingless, oval shaped, 2 to 8mm long Deep brown color Disproportionately small head Six legs Large hind legs, can jump long distances |
Pets Upholstery |
Can spread disease |
Bed Bugs |
Front wings tiny, no hind wings Light brown or reddish-brown Oval and flat, 4-5 mm long, 1-3 mm wide Segmented abdomens with microscopic hairs Banded appearance. |
Mattress seams and piping Bed frame cracks |
Do not spread disease |
2. Symptoms
The itching and red bumps generally clear up in a few weeks. If you continue to experience itching, bumps or other symptoms or worsen in any way, see your doctor. If no bed bugs are found after searching your bed or you cannot determine the source of the bites, see your doctor to make sure the diagnosis is correct. Many other insect bites and skin conditions can cause similar symptoms and findings.
Flea Bites |
Bites are intensely itchy A red raised and swollen bump develops in less than 1 hour after the bite. The wheal (bump) can turn into a blister or open sore in a day Legs and feet are affected most often Scratching commonly causes secondary infection Hypersensitivity to the bites can develop in some people |
Bed Bugs Bites |
Bites cause red bumps, often with a central dark red spot Itchy Bites are in a rough line or in a cluster Commonly on the face, neck, arms and hands Some people do not react or develop bumps Others develop severe itching, blisters orhives |
3. Treatments
Many OTC drugs can help relieve the bites; seek medical help in serious conditions. All home remedies can be applied in both the conditions.
Flea Bites |
Wash the bite area with warm soapy water. Apply an antiseptic cream and then use an icepack to decrease swelling and inflammation. Avoid excessively hot water as this can stimulate a more intense skin reaction. Repeat ice for 10 minutes at time and reapply several times over the next 1-2 hours after being bitten. OTC hydrocortisone cream, calamine and benadryl are all effective at decreasing the itching and inflammation associated with the flea bites. Avoid placing these creams on any open areas of skin or wounds. Consult your pharmacist or doctor about anti-itch medications. Antihistamines such as benadryl and OTC loratadine are effective at reducing the itching sensation and blunting the body's allergic response to bites. Hydroxyzine is a prescription anti-histamine and is highly effective. These medications cause drowsiness so use caution, avoid driving while taking and don't drink alcohol if using these medications. Other home remedies:
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Bed Bugs Bites |
Look closely at the bite and then search bedding and clothing for the bed bugs to confirm the cause. OTC drugs: Options include: hydrocortisone cream, benadryl cream and calamine. Follow the package directions to get the most effective relief of symptoms. Topical pramoxine works to numb the area and can help alleviate symptoms. Oral antihistamine medications such as benadryl or loratadine are available over the counter and provide effective itch relief. If painful, try OTC medications such as ibuprofen or Tylenol. Other home remedies:
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4. Prevention Measures
Flea Bites |
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Bed Bugs Bites |
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