Sand Flea Bites on Humans – Pictures, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention!
Sand Flea Bites on Humans – Pictures, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Sand flea bites, also known as jigger flea bites, occur when a tiny, flea like insect punctures the skin of animals or humans while they are on the beach or in other sandy areas. The bugs penetrate the skin below the surface and bury themselves deeper into the layers of the flesh to suck out blood.
Pictures of Sand Flea Bites:
The first thing you may notice when you have been bitten by a sand flea are the red bumps, which look like small red welts. These welts may be itchy, and often swell to the size of a pencil eraser. Here are some pictures of what sand flea bites look like:
- Picture 1: A mosquito-like bite with a small red bump
- Picture 2: A raised, itchy red bump with a white bleb in the center
- Picture 3: A raised, itchy welt with a pinpoint red dot in the center
- Picture 4: A raised, itchy bump with a red dot surrounded by a white halo
Symptoms of Sand Flea Bites:
Sand fleas can sometimes cause irritation, itching, and pain. They can also cause other symptoms such as:
- Mild swelling
- Redness
- Itching and burning sensation
- Painful feeling on the affected area
- A small white bump in the center (that is filled with the sand flea’s saliva and blood)
Sand Flea Bites Treatment:
A sand flea bite may seem small, but it can easily become irritated or infected. If you have been bitten, it is important to take the following steps to reduce the risk of infection:
- Wash the affected area with soap and water to remove any dirt and debris.
- Apply anti-itch cream or calamine lotion to the area to relieve itching and inflammation.
- Take an antihistamine to reduce swelling and reduce itching.
- See a doctor if your symptoms are severe or the area does not improve.
How to Prevent Sand Flea Bites:
The best way to prevent sand flea bites is to avoid areas where they are most commonly found, such as beaches, sandboxes, and sandy areas. If it is not possible to avoid these areas, it is important to take the following precautions:
- Wear clothing that covers exposed skin to reduce the risk of flea bites.
- Applying insect repellent containing DEET to the skin can help keep sand fleas away.
- Avoid lying directly on the sand to reduce the risk of contact with fleas.
- Check yourself and others for fleas when leaving the area and remove any fleas that you find.
Sand flea bites can be uncomfortable and irritating, but they can also be easily avoided with proper precautions and a basic understanding of where sand fleas are commonly found. By taking these steps, you can enjoy your time at the beach and keep your skin free from these pesky pests.
