Cat scratch disease otherwise known as cat scratch fever is an infection that is caused by the Bartonella henselae bacteria. Most people contract this infection from either cat scratches or cat bites. Fleas are responsible for spreading these particular bacteria to cats; however there is no solid evidence that fleas too can spread this disease directly to humans. The Bartonella henselae bacteria live in the saliva of an infected cat, but it does not make the cat sick. It is believed that at least 50 percent of all cats have this infection at some point in their lives.
A tiny bump or blister forms on the area of the bite or scratch and could be mistaken for a bug bite. These bumps or lesions are mostly found on the scalp, head, hands or scalp are known as inoculation lesions and are usually not painful. Within a few weeks after the bite/scratch, the lymph nodes that are present in the area of this inoculation lesion, will become tender and swell up. Say for example, an individual has an inoculation lesion on his or her arm; then the lymph nodes in the armpit or elbow will swell. This swelling at times may be accompanied with fever, rash, head ache, a sore throat and a loss of appetite. This condition normally tends to resolve on its own and calls for no treatment, but here are a few home remedies that can help ease irritation and pain. Mix together equal amounts of sea salt and baking soda. Add this to a glass of warm water stir it well and then drink it. Doing this twice a day will help the body in eliminating toxins, this in turn will enable the lymph nodes to function efficiently and thus get rid of the swelling.
Take a tablespoon of lavender oil and to this add a teaspoon of sunflower oil. Gently massage the mixture of the two oils on the swelling 2-3 times a day. This will help in reducing pain and the swelling as well. Another option would be to apply a warm compress on the swollen area. Dip a clean cloth in a bowl of warm water, squeeze the excess water out of the cloth and then place the cloth on the affected area. This will help alleviating pain to a large extent. Please bear in mind that if the swelling does not subside and the pain increases, you must consult a physician immediately.