Chiggers are not insects but the larval stage of tiny mites. These microscopic arachnids, close relatives of spiders and ticks, are nearly invisible to the naked eye. While adult chiggers are harmless and feed on small soil organisms, their six-legged larvae seek out hosts, including humans. This often leads to an irritating skin reaction.
How Long Chiggers Stay Attached
Chiggers do not burrow into the skin. The larval chigger attaches to a host, typically where clothing fits tightly or skin is thin. Once attached, the chigger pierces the skin and injects digestive enzymes, which break down skin cells. The chigger then feeds on these liquefied skin cells, forming a feeding tube known as a stylostome. Chiggers remain attached for a few hours to three or four days, detaching on their own or dislodged by scratching or washing.
How Long Chigger Bite Symptoms Last
While the chigger detaches quickly, bite symptoms can persist much longer due to the body’s immune response to injected enzymes. The initial bite is often unnoticeable, but intense itching begins within one to three hours after attachment. This itching is most pronounced within the first 24 to 48 hours. The affected area develops itchy, red bumps that may resemble pimples, blisters, or hives.
The red welts and persistent itch result from an inflammatory reaction to the chigger’s saliva and the stylostome, not a living chigger under the skin. Symptoms can last for several days, with complete resolution of skin lesions often taking one to two weeks. For individuals with sensitive skin, the irritation might linger for a longer period.
When Chiggers Are Most Active
Chigger activity depends on environmental conditions, particularly temperature and humidity. They thrive in warm, moist environments, making late spring, summer, and early fall their peak seasons. Chiggers are most active when ground temperatures range between 77°F and 86°F. Their presence diminishes as temperatures drop, becoming inactive below 60°F, and they cannot survive below 42°F, indicating a seasonal cessation of activity. These mites are found in tall grasses, overgrown weeds, wooded areas, and near natural bodies of water, waiting on vegetation to attach to passing hosts.
Treating Chigger Bites
Once chigger bites occur, treatment focuses on alleviating intense itching and preventing secondary infections. An immediate step is to wash the affected skin thoroughly with soap and water. This helps remove any remaining chiggers. Over-the-counter remedies provide significant relief from symptoms.
Applying calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to bites helps reduce itching and inflammation. Oral antihistamines are effective in managing discomfort, especially if itching is severe or interferes with sleep. Cool compresses or a bath with colloidal oatmeal can further soothe irritated skin. Avoid scratching bites, as this can break the skin barrier and increase the risk of bacterial infection.