Saturday, May 26, 2012

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Dog fleas; Siphonaptera


Treatment

The goal of treatment is to get rid of the fleas by treating the home, pets, and outside areas with insecticide. Small children should not be in the home when insecticides are being used. Birds and fish must be protected during spraying. Home foggers and flea collars do not always work. If home treatments do not work, professional extermination may be needed.

If flea bites occur, an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream can help relieve itching.


Support Groups


Expectations (prognosis)

Getting rid of fleas can be difficult and takes persistence.


Complications

Scratching can lead to a skin infection.



Review Date: 10/28/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)