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.