It can be incredibly frustrating when you feel like you’re the only one in the household getting bitten by fleas. As you watch everyone else go about their day unbothered, you may be left wondering, “Why are the fleas only biting me?”
There are a few possible explanations for why fleas may target one person over everyone else. Let’s explore some of the most common theories:
You Have Sweeter Blood
Some researchers believe that certain people simply have sweeter blood than others, making them more appealing targets for fleas.
Fleas are drawn to the carbon dioxide we exhale. However, they also rely on chemical signals to determine who to feed on. Substances like ammonia, lactic acid, and other components in our sweat can attract them.
Those with higher amounts of these compounds in their blood and perspiration may be more vulnerable to flea bites. In particular, pregnant women and those with specific blood types (Type O or Type A) tend to be more desirable to the tiny vampires.
You Have Hotter Body Temperature
Fleas are also drawn to warmth. We humans have an average body temperature around 98.6°F. Some people run slightly warmer, while others run slightly cooler.
Even small variations in body heat can make someone more attractive to cold-blooded fleas. They will seek out the warmest body in the room for their next meal.
So if you naturally have a higher body temp, you may notice more fleas flocking to you.
You Produce More Carbon Dioxide
As mentioned earlier, carbon dioxide is one of the primary ways fleas locate hosts. They can detect the CO2 we exhale from across the room.
Some people simply produce more carbon dioxide than others. Factors like your respiratory rate, metabolism, and overall health can influence CO2 production.
The more vigorous your breathing and metabolism, the more alluring your CO2 signature will be. Fleas hone in on heavy breathers from far away.
You Have Thinner Skin
Fleas have an easier time biting into thin skin versus thick skin. Your skin thickness depends largely on genetics, age, and exposure to the elements.
Younger people tend to have thinner skin that is easier for flea mouthparts to penetrate. As we age, skin naturally becomes more layered and tougher.
Also, those who work outdoors tend to develop thicker, more weathered skin over time. If you have smooth, delicate skin, you may notice more flea bites.
You’re Simply Near Fleas More Often
Sometimes the explanation is as simple as exposure. If one person in the household spends more time outside with pets, in grassy areas, or around flea infestations, they’ll attract more fleas.
The fleas follow you inside and hitch a ride on your clothing or hair. Then when they get hungry, you’re the closest warm body.
Proximity to flea environments is the most obvious reason why some people get bitten more than others. Pay attention to who spends the most time outdoors or interacting with flea-prone pets.
You’re More Sensitive to Flea Bites
Finally, it may not be that you’re getting bitten more often. You may simply react more strongly to the flea bites you do get.
Everyone has a unique sensitivity level to insects and parasites. Some people show no reaction, while others experience big itchy welts.
If your immune system is extra sensitive, a tiny flea bite will trigger a more noticeable reaction. The area will look and feel more inflamed as your body overreacts.
Meanwhile, other members of your household may get bitten just as often but have less visible bite marks. Differing sensitivity levels can create the illusion that you’re the fleas’ number one target.
How to Stop Fleas From Biting You
If you seem to be the fleas’ favorite snack bar, here are some tactics to reduce bites:
Take Short, Cool Showers
Bathing washes away substances on your skin that attract fleas, like sweat and skin oils. However, avoid long steamy showers. The combination of heat and humidity will draw fleas to you.
Stick to quick, lukewarm showers to rinse off without making yourself more appealing post-wash.
Avoid Scented Soaps and Lotions
Fragrant soaps, shampoos, and lotions contain chemicals that can mimic the natural substances fleas find attractive. Stick to mild, fragrance-free cleansers instead.
Change Clothes Frequently
Dirty clothes pick up flea attractants as you wear them. The fleas respond to the chemicals in your laundered shirts and pants. Changing frequently helps reduce the compounds that cling to fabric.
Also wash your clothes in unscented detergent and avoid fabric softeners.
Treat Your Home for Fleas
Don’t just treat your pets; treat your house too! Flea bombs, sprays, and foggers applied professionally can wipe out infestations. Maintaining your lawn also discourages fleas in outdoor spaces.
Aggressive home treatment is vital if you want to get rid of fleas long-term. Otherwise, they’ll keep finding ways back in.
Use Repellents When Outdoors
Apply flea repellents like DEET or picaridin if you’ll be in grassy, wooded areas where fleas reside. Also treat your shoes, socks, and pants cuffs for added protection.
Repellents make you less attractive to fleas that might hitch a ride inside later. Reapply them according to label directions.
Take an Antihistamine
If your sensitive skin makes flea bites unbearable, take an oral antihistamine. Antihistamines like Zyrtec, Claritin, or Allegra can mitigate reactions and reduce swelling and itching.
Consult your doctor about safe daily antihistamine use. Just don’t overdo it, or you may end up with other health side effects.
Try Using Flea Traps
Place sticky flea traps or flea light traps around your home to reduce biting. The traps lure fleas in and capture them so they can’t jump on you.
Traps are especially helpful for identifying new infestations before they get out of control. Check traps regularly to gauge flea populations.
Apply Flea Medicine to Your Pets
Don’t forget monthly flea preventives on your furry family members! Whether you use oral tablets or topical liquid treatments, flea medicine kills fleas on your pet before they can bite and lay eggs.
All pets should be on year-round flea control, even indoor-only animals. One untreated pet can lead to a full-blown home infestation.
Avoid Fleas’ Favorite Hiding Spots
Fleas congregate in dark, humid spots like under furniture, in carpet, and in pet beds. Sit on hard seats and keep your feet up to avoid becoming a meal.
Also wash all pet bedding frequently to discourage flea harborage. Regular vacuuming also picks up eggs and larvae.
Make Your Yard Less Flea-Friendly
Trim vegetation, remove brush piles, and mow frequently to disrupt flea life cycles outdoors. Rake up fallen leaves where adult fleas wait for hosts.
Also avoid stacking wood against your home’s exterior, and keep firewood covered. Fleas love the moist, shaded areas woodpiles create.
Invest in Loose, Light Clothing
When possible, wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing. Fleas have a harder time biting through flowing garments made of smooth fabrics.
Loose long sleeves and pants also prevent fleas from accessing skin. Opt for lighter hues to spot fleas crawling on you more easily.
Shower After Coming Indoors
Immediately showering once inside removes any fleas clinging to your clothes or skin before they bite. A quick post-yardwork rinse goes a long way.
You may even want to store a change of clothes in the garage so you can switch into fresh flea-free attire.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, flea bites are just a nuisance that can be managed with prevention. However, if you experience any of the following, it’s time to see your doctor:
- Intense itching or pain that prevents sleep
- Signs of infection like pus, swelling, redness, or heat
- Skin rash over large areas of the body
- Dizziness, shortness of breath, or throat swelling
- Fever, headaches, muscle aches, or other flu-like symptoms
These can indicate an allergy, serious reaction, or secondary skin infection. Your doctor can provide relief, prescribe medication, and advise on future flea bite prevention.
In very rare cases, fleas may also transmit diseases like murine typhus or plague. Seek prompt medical care for any severe symptoms. Don’t attempt to self-diagnose flea-borne illness.
The Takeaway
If it feels like you’re the only one getting bitten, you may wonder “why do fleas target me?” In reality, they’re likely biting the whole household. But factors like your blood chemistry, scent, heat signature, and outdoor exposure make you especially appealing.
The good news is there are many ways to reduce flea attraction. Proper prevention and vigilance can help even the biting playing field. With diligent flea management, the whole family can stop serving as an all-you-can-eat flea buffet.