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Anyone who has ever walked through a field of tall grass has probably had an encounter with a chigger bite. Although not life threatening, these bug bites can be quite uncomfortable. Before venturing out into the outdoors, be informed as to what causes the bite, how to prevent it, and how to treat it.
What is a Chigger?As a member of the arachnid family, the chigger has eight legs. What is commonly referred to as a chigger is actually the larva of the Trombiculidae mite. It is extremely small, measuring only 1/150th of an inch.
The Chigger BiteChiggers live on tall vegetation. They can latch onto the skin when the leaves are brushed up against. Contrary to popular belief, the chigger does not burrow into the skin and remain there. Symptoms from the bite are caused from the injection of digestive enzymes into the skin so that the chigger can feed. After it is finished, it falls off the skin. The fluids remain under the skin. These cause the redness and itchiness associated with the bite. The sore caused by the bite can take almost two weeks to heal.
TreatmentTreatment primarily involves relieving the symptoms caused by the bite. hydrocortisone creams and calamine lotion are the number one topical choices. Antihistamine medications such as diphenhydramine taken orally may also be used.
The common belief that the chigger remains under the skin has led to several home remedies. Treatments that are often used are based on the premise of killing the bug. These remedies include covering the bite with nail polish and using rubbing alcohol. Since the chigger does not remain, these treatments will not cure the bite or relieve symptoms.
PreventionAvoiding tall vegetation is the best way to prevent chigger bites. However, this is not always possible. There are ways to minimize the chances of being bitten. A person should wear clothing that covers the arms and legs fully. Pant legs should be tucked securely into socks or boots. Insect repellents are also an option. Any spray that kills or repels mosquitoes will also deter chiggers.
What else can I help you with?
Are chigger bites contagious?
No, chigger bites are not contagious. Chiggers are tiny larvae of mites that can cause itching and skin irritation when they bite humans. The bites themselves do not spread from person to person.
Are chigger bites dangerous?
Generally chigger bites are not dangerous. They are more of an annoyance. If the area becomes discolored or painful than an infection could be on the horizon.
What exactly is chigger bites?
Chigger bites are from Chiggers that are part of the mite family. Chigger bites are similar to ticks, they both feed on tissue, however unlike ticks, chiggers do not bury their head in the skin. They turn into hard red spots usually around the groin and armpits.
Where can I find pictures of chigger bites?
If you fear you have been bitten by a chigger I would recommend http://www.medicinenet.com/chiggers_bites/article.htm as the site to look at. It gives you the symptoms, and treatment for the bites. If you need additional pictures check out WebMD or Wikipedia.
What are some of the symptoms of chigger bites?
The most common symptoms of chigger bites is itching but there are more symptoms than just that. The area may resemble a blister, and look red and if left alone long enough, then it can turn into a lesions.
Where can I find chigger bite pictures on the internet?
There are lots of pictures of chigger bites online. Infact there are several dedicated websites on the internet on this subject, the best of which is chiggerbitepictures.com
What bites are similar to chiggers?
Bites from fleas, mosquitoes, and bedbugs can be similar to chigger bites, as they all cause itchy, red welts on the skin. Like chigger bites, flea bites often appear in clusters, while mosquito bites typically present as raised, itchy bumps. Bedbug bites usually occur in linear patterns and can cause significant itching as well. Distinguishing between these bites often requires considering the location of the bites and the circumstances of exposure.
What are the symptoms and treatment options for chigger bites on cats?
Chigger bites on cats can cause itching, redness, and swelling. Treatment options include cleaning the affected area, applying anti-itch creams, and consulting a veterinarian for further care.
How long do the chigger bites last?
how long do cigger bites last when applying medicine?
How long do the bites last?
Chigger bites usually itch the worst on day 1 and day 2. The bites last about 4-7 days, depending on how much you scratch them.
Are the chigger bite pictures online generally accurate?
The severity of a chigger bite can vary from person to person. The actual bites themselves look like hives or small pimples, but you can also get a rash associated with the chigger bites. If the area they bit was exposed to the sun, you may get an itchy rash as well. One very good way to tell if what you have is chigger bites is by their location. Chiggers congregate in areas where clothing meets the skin, such as waistbands, ankles, and underwear lines. This is a good website with more information on chiggers themselves" http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002309/
Can halobetasol propionate cream be used for chigger bites?
Halobetasol propionate cream is a potent topical corticosteroid that can reduce inflammation and itching, making it potentially effective for treating the irritation caused by chigger bites. However, it is important to use it as directed by a healthcare professional, as overuse can lead to skin thinning and other side effects. For mild chigger bites, over-the-counter treatments may be sufficient, so consulting a doctor is advisable for appropriate recommendations.
