Wash the area with soap and water
Apply a cold compress 10–15 minutes at a time, several times daily for the first 1–2 days
Use an anti-itch cream such as hydrocortisone 1% thin layer 1–2 times daily for up to 7 days
Take an oral antihistamine for itching, such as cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine (follow label directions)
For short-term relief, use diphenhydramine at night if needed (follow label directions; may cause drowsiness)
Use calamine lotion or pramoxine lotion for itch relief if needed
Avoid scratching; keep nails short to reduce skin damage
Clean and cover any broken skin with a sterile bandage
Consider an oral pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if sore (follow label directions)
Seek medical care urgently if there are signs of infection (spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, worsening pain)
Seek medical care if bites cause severe swelling, widespread hives, trouble breathing, or facial/lip swelling
Contact a clinician if symptoms last more than 1–2 weeks or if you have a history of severe allergic reactions
Treat pets and the home environment to prevent new bites (wash bedding in hot water, vacuum thoroughly, and use appropriate flea control products as directed)