Loss of Sensation in Skin After Flea Bites

Loss of sensation in the skin?

Recently, I have many wounds on my foot from flea bites, but the wounds are about to heal.
I am still applying medication because I am afraid of cellulitis.
However, while applying the medication, I noticed that the skin near the flea bites is completely numb when I press it with my fingernail.
What could this situation indicate?

QQ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/14

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, your symptoms may suggest peripheral neuropathy, which is generally categorized into motor and sensory types, each presenting with various symptoms.
Sensory nerve disorders can cause numbness in the hands and feet (especially at the tips), which may feel like tingling, crawling sensations, or even electric shocks.
Peripheral nerves function like electrical wires, and peripheral neuropathy indicates a problem with these wires, impairing message transmission.
Your physician may arrange for a nerve conduction study, which involves electrically stimulating the nerves to assess for any conduction abnormalities.
This helps evaluate nerve function, similar to checking if an electrical wire is broken or if its insulation is damaged.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for discussion and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Tao, Neurology, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/05/14

More Info

When dealing with skin reactions after flea bites, it's essential to understand the body's response to insect bites and the healing process. Flea bites can cause localized inflammation, redness, and itching, which are typical allergic reactions to the saliva of the flea. However, the sensation loss you are experiencing in the area around the bites can be concerning and may indicate a few different things.

Firstly, the loss of sensation in the skin can occur due to nerve irritation or damage. When the skin is bitten, the inflammatory response can lead to swelling and pressure on nearby nerves, which may temporarily disrupt their function. This can result in a feeling of numbness or reduced sensation in the affected area. If the inflammation is significant, it can compress the nerves, leading to these symptoms.

Secondly, if the area has been scratched or traumatized due to itching, it can lead to a condition known as "neuropraxia," where the nerve function is temporarily impaired due to compression or injury. This is usually reversible, and sensation typically returns as the inflammation subsides and the skin heals.

Additionally, if you are applying topical medications, it's crucial to ensure that they are appropriate for the condition. Some topical treatments can cause irritation or allergic reactions, which might exacerbate the symptoms you are experiencing. If the medication is causing further irritation, it could contribute to the numbness or altered sensation in the area.

Regarding your concern about cellulitis (蜂窩性組織炎), it is a bacterial skin infection that can occur after skin trauma, including insect bites. Signs of cellulitis include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, and pain in the affected area, along with systemic symptoms like fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly, as cellulitis requires antibiotic treatment.

In your case, since the bites are healing and you are not experiencing significant redness or swelling, it may be a matter of time for the sensation to return. However, if the numbness persists or worsens, or if you develop any signs of infection, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

In summary, the loss of sensation in the skin after flea bites can be attributed to nerve irritation or damage due to inflammation or trauma. While it is often a temporary condition that resolves as the skin heals, monitoring for signs of infection is crucial. If you have any concerns or if symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is always the best course of action.

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