Chiggers are the larval stage of a specific mite, belonging to the arachnid family, and are so small they are nearly invisible to the naked eye. These tiny pests are commonly found in overgrown, grassy, and wooded areas, particularly when the weather is warm and humid. When they attach to a human host, they inject a digestive enzyme that liquefies skin cells, creating an intensely itchy, red bump where they feed. The body’s reaction to this feeding process often continues for several days after the mite has detached.
Immediate Action to Remove Mites
The first step after potential chigger exposure is to physically remove any mites that may still be attached to the skin or clothing. Unlike some other pests, chiggers do not burrow into the skin; they remain on the surface or at the opening of a hair follicle. Immediately take a shower or bath using warm water and vigorously scrub the skin with soap and a washcloth. This mechanical action is highly effective at dislodging the mites before they can fully attach or continue feeding.
Focus on areas where clothing fits tightly, such as the waistline, ankles, and behind the knees, as these are common points of attachment. After showering, all exposed clothing, towels, and gear should be washed promptly in hot water and detergent. Using a hot wash cycle, ideally 130°F or higher, ensures any remaining mites are killed, preventing re-infestation.
Soothing the Intense Itching
Once the mites are removed, treatment shifts entirely to managing the severe and persistent itching caused by the injected digestive enzymes. The resulting red bumps, which may look like hives or small blisters, can itch intensely for up to a week. Applying a topical corticosteroid, such as 1% hydrocortisone cream, directly to the bites can help reduce inflammation and calm the allergic reaction.
Another effective topical treatment is calamine lotion, which acts as a mild antiseptic and helps dry the lesions, providing a cooling sensation that temporarily relieves the urge to scratch. For widespread or particularly severe itching, an oral antihistamine containing diphenhydramine can reduce the body’s systemic reaction and help improve sleep.
Non-medicinal methods, such as applying a cold compress or soaking in a lukewarm bath infused with colloidal oatmeal, can also provide immediate, localized relief. Avoid scratching the affected areas, as this can break the skin barrier and introduce bacteria, leading to a secondary infection.
Preventing Future Chigger Bites
Apply a repellent containing DEET to exposed skin before entering areas with tall grass, weeds, or dense foliage. For longer-lasting protection, clothing and gear can be treated with permethrin, an insecticide that kills chiggers on contact; this should be applied to fabrics, not directly to the skin.
Wearing appropriate clothing acts as a physical barrier against the tiny mites. Opt for long-sleeved shirts and long pants made of tightly woven material, and tuck pant legs into your socks or boots to seal off a common entry point. Managing the environment around your home, such as keeping lawns mowed short and removing overgrown brush, also reduces the favorable habitat for chiggers.
Recognizing When to See a Doctor
While most chigger bites resolve completely with at-home care, there are specific signs that indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. If the intense itching fails to subside or worsens after several days of consistent home treatment, a prescription-strength topical steroid may be needed.
Watch closely for signs of a secondary bacterial skin infection, which commonly occurs from excessive scratching. Symptoms include:
- Increasing warmth
- Spreading redness
- Significant swelling
- The presence of pus or drainage from the bite sites
In rare instances, a person may experience an allergic reaction, which warrants immediate medical attention. If the irritated skin lesions have not begun to heal within two weeks, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended to rule out other possible skin conditions.