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SAND FLEA BITES SUCK!

It feels amazing to immerse your frozen from the harsh Midwest winter feet into warm Caribbean or other coastal sand. But beware of sand fleas that could leave you bitten, itchy, and scratchy for days after your vacation. Here is some helpful info about sand flea bite prevention and treatment.

HOW TO PREVENT SAND FLEA BITES

Step1

Try to avoid the beach after it has rained. These moist, cooler conditions seem to put the fleas at their friskiest state. Give the area a chance to dry and warm up a little before venturing out.

Step2

Wait until mid-morning to early afternoon to go the beach, as the cooler early morning hours are a favorite time of these little mites.

Step3

Give your body a good coating of insect repellent before heading out. Check the label to make sure that the repellent works on fleas and not just mosquitoes.

Step4

Put something between yourself and the sand before sitting down, be it a beach towel or lawn chair. The reason sand flea bites are commonly located on the backs of the thighs is because this is the most exposed and accessible area when sitting directly on the sand.

Step5

Wear longer shorts if there will be direct contact with the sand. Board shorts work fairly well. Be mindful of the calves and ankles, however, as they are fair game as well.

Step6

Reapply the insect repellent if the beach party continues after sunset. Biting insects tend to get a second wind when the evening sets in.

HOW TO TREAT SAND FLEA BITES

Step1

Attack the problem internally. Ibuprofen can be effective in easing the pain and swelling of the bites, while oral antihistamines can do wonders for the constant itch.

Step2

Soak in a colloidal oatmeal bath. Simply add the oatmeal while the bath is filling so it can disperse easier. Make sure that the water is lukewarm, as hot water can further agitate the itching sensation.

Step3

Make a simple paste of baking soda and water to spread over the affected areas.

Step4

Use some aloe vera gel. It has a natural cooling and soothing effect. As an added bonus, the gel can also help to soothe areas of the skin that have been irritated by the sun.

Step5

Buy some hydrocortisone cream (it should be at least one percent). Some anti-itch creams contain pain-relief medication as well, which can help with sore, swollen areas

For more answers please visit www.absolutefootandankleclinic.com, your caring neighborhood full-service podiatrist.

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