What Causes Itchy Sensation On Legs And Back After Touching A Cat?

Posted on Thu, 5 Nov 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 5 Nov 2015 Answered on

Sat, 21 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hey Dr,

Since last night I have been feeling itchy on my back and legs. I came into contact with my friends cat yesterday but apparently it was clean. I am not sure if I have fleas or not because I have a few red spots on my legs but I am not sure if they are related. I have attached a picture of my leg. If it were fleas would washing with soap get rid of them or do I need special cream?

Kind Regards,
XXXXX

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Seems to have developed insect bite hypersensitivity reaction

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to healthcaremagic
I have gone through your history and reviewed the photograph. I can see 2-3 tiny red bumps on your leg.
According to me you have developed an insect bite hypersensitivity reaction to fleas or some other insects.
It won't go away by washing only. I suggest you to take oral antihistamines like tablet chlorpheniramine and apply cortisone cream on the affected areas. I think these will be available as over the counter medicines in your country. This will help in resolving your symptoms.
I hope to have answered your query.
Wish you speedy recovery.
Regards
Dr Asmeet

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (28 minutes later)

Thanks for the reply but will the insect go away by washing with soap for example?

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Welcome!!

Detailed Answer:
Yes if they are present they will go away by washing with soap but it is mostly the bites that lead to this kind of reaction.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (19 minutes later)

Ok makes sense, I already have Cortisone so I will put that on, also should I wait until tomorrow morning to take an antihistamine or should I take it before bed?

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (4 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
If itching is mild take antihistaminic in the morning otherwise at bedtime.

Detailed Answer:
Ok.. You start with cortisone cream. If the itching is mild and bearable you can easily wait till morning . If severe you take the antihistaminic at bed time.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad