Most of these creatures are harmless and dont cause any problems.
However, sand fleas (Tunga penetrans) areinsectsthat thrive in subtropical and tropical environments.
It will also discuss treatment options for sand flea disease.
aroundtheworld.photography / Getty Images
aroundtheworld.photography / Getty Images
What Are Sand Fleas?
Sand fleas, orTunga penetrans, areparasitic insectsthat feed on the blood of live hosts, including humans.
While males can bite, it’s only the mated female sand fleas that burrow into the skin.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
They will stay in the skin and feed until they are ready to shed their eggs.
Where Do Sand Fleas Live?
Tunga penetranscan be found in sandy areas, such as beaches, farms, and stables.
anamariategzes / Getty Images
Sand fleas are especially widespread in rural areas where dirt floors are common.
They thrive in many subtropical andtropical climatesaround the world.
However, they can sometimes be carried here by international travelers.
Pictures of Sand Flea Bites: What Do They Look Like?
Sand fleas are very tiny and usually penetrate the toes or feet.
Over time, the roundskin lesiongets darker until it is uniformly black.
There may also be inflammation, pain, swelling, and itching in the affected area of the skin.
you’re free to view an image of flea bites below.
Reproduced with permission from DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
anamariategzes / Getty Images
What Are the Risks of Sand Flea Bites?
Most bites from organisms referred to as sand fleas dont cause any long-lasting harm.
However, some people who are exposed toT.
penetransdevelop sand flea disease (tungiasis), a condition that can lead to serious health complications.
They leave behind circular lesions in the toes or feet that often get irritated, itchy, and inflamed.
A clinician may be able to manually extract the fleas from your skin lesions using sterile surgical instruments.
They may also recommend atetanus boosterif youre not up to date.
it’s possible for you to identify bites by how they look.
At first, you may see a whitish disc with a dark point in the middle.
Eventually, the middle darkens and the lesion turns entirely black.
How Are Sand Flea Bites Diagnosed?
They may also ask you about your symptoms and medical history, as well as recent travel.
Mechanical extraction (with the help of a healthcare provider) can also aid in the diagnostic process.
In addition to relieving symptoms, this can help to identify both thefleasthemselves and their eggs.
Sand fleas will seize the opportunity for an easy meal.
When they bite, they are often found between the toes or under toenails.
Apply the repellent to your feet twice a day to help prevent fleas from penetrating the skin.
It’s important to keep the wound clean becausesecondary bacterial infectionscan also occur.
Tetanus and gangrene are not uncommon for tungiasis.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
In most cases, sand flea bites arent dangerous.
Topical OTC treatments, time, and self-care often help to relieve symptoms.
Humans can get sand flea bites by walking barefoot in areas where sand fleas are common.
These pictures can help you recognize the symptoms of sand flea bites on humans.
You’ll likely find bites between the toes or under toe nails.
Orkin.Sand flea identification and control.
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