How to Treat Chiggers?
How to Treat Chiggers
Chiggers are microscopic mites that are often referred to as “red bugs” because they typically cause an itchy, red welt on the skin. Chiggers are found in well-established vegetation in grassy and wooded areas, making it difficult to avoid them entirely. If you find yourself with an itchy chigger bite, here are some tips on how to treat it.
Steps to Treat Chiggers
This will help remove any remaining chiggers, as well as clean the area and reduce bacteria.
These creams can help soothe the itchiness and provide relief.
This can help manage any histamine response the body may have to the chigger bite.
A cold compress or ice pack can help reduce the itching and swelling.
Calamine lotion can also help reduce the itching and soothe the affected area.
Helpful Tips
- Apply moisturiser to the area to keep the skin hydrated.
- Choose clothes and shoes that cover as much of your skin as possible when heading into areas with high chigger populations.
- Do regular pesticide/insecticide treatments to any yard/outdoor areas that have chiggers.
- Be sure to check for chiggers after being in an area with them and take a shower right away.
If the itch persists or gets worse after following the above steps, you should seek medical attention. Otherwise, with proper treatment, the itch should subside within a couple of days.
Many people have encountered chiggers at some point in their lives. While chiggers are a common annoyance, they can also cause itchy and painful bites so it is important to know how to best treat them. Here are some useful tips on how to treat chiggers.
The first and most important tip is to prevent chigger bites in the first place. To do this, wear appropriate clothing when in areas where chiggers may be present. This includes wearing long loose-fitting trousers, long-sleeve shirts, and tucking pant-legs into socks or boots to help protect the skin. Other methods of prevention include applying a DEET-based insect repellent, or spraying affected areas with an insecticide.
If you are bitten by a chigger, use a cool compress on the affected area to relieve the itch. There are several over-the-counter creams and ointments that can help provide additional relief. Additionally, taking an oral antihistamine such as Benadryl can help reduce swelling and itching.
It is also important to treat any secondary infections that may occur due to scratching of the bites. To do this, gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water, pat dry, and apply an antibiotic ointment. If the infection does not clear up within a few days or the bite area becomes swollen, red or painful consult with a healthcare provider.
Overall, treating chigger bites can be a aggravating experience but if you follow these steps you can help reduce their symptoms in the long run. Wearing protective clothing, applying insect repellent, and treating secondary infections promptly can help ensure chiggers do not ruin your summer.
