Chiggers are the parasitic larval stage of certain mites, barely visible but causing intense irritation. These tiny arachnids attach to the skin surface, contrary to the common misconception that they burrow. They inject digestive enzymes that break down skin cells, which the chigger consumes as a liquid meal. This injected saliva creates a hardened feeding tube of dead cells called a stylostome, triggering an allergic reaction that results in severe itching. Treatment focuses on managing this intense inflammatory response until the body naturally heals the site.
Identifying Chigger Bites
Chigger bites appear as small, red welts, pimples, or blisters on the skin. The reaction usually develops several hours after the mite has attached and begun feeding. Bites often cluster together in groups, frequently found in areas where clothing fits tightly against the skin. Common locations include the ankles, waistline, behind the knees, and along sock or bra lines.
Immediate First Steps for Relief
The most effective action is to take a thorough bath or shower using soap and water as soon as exposure is suspected. Vigorously scrubbing the skin with a washcloth helps dislodge any attached chiggers or those crawling on the body. Even if itching has begun and the mite has dropped off, this cleansing step removes unattached larvae and residual irritants, preventing further bites.
Following cleansing, applying a cold compress or an ice pack to the affected areas can help. The cold temperature reduces acute inflammation and temporarily numbs the skin, providing immediate, temporary relief from severe itching.
Ongoing Treatment Options
Managing persistent inflammation and itching requires targeted over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Topical anti-itch creams containing hydrocortisone are effective corticosteroids that decrease the local immune response and reduce swelling. Calamine lotion can also be applied to soothe the skin and help dry out weeping or blistered spots.
Oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine or cetirizine, address the systemic allergic reaction triggered by the chigger’s digestive enzymes. These medications are helpful for managing itching that disrupts sleep, especially since some formulations cause drowsiness. For supplemental relief, consider:
- A warm bath with colloidal oatmeal, which calms inflamed skin.
- A simple paste made from baking soda and water applied directly to the bites.
Recovery Timeline and When to Consult a Doctor
The severe itching caused by chigger bites peaks within the first one to two days after the initial reaction. The urge to scratch subsides within a few days, but visible red welts or bumps may take longer to heal. Full skin recovery, where the lesions completely disappear, usually occurs within one to two weeks.
Seek medical attention if signs of a secondary bacterial infection develop, which can happen if the skin is broken by excessive scratching. Symptoms that warrant a doctor’s visit include:
- Increased warmth.
- Spreading redness.
- Significant swelling.
- Pus or drainage from the bite sites.
A medical professional can prescribe stronger topical steroid creams or oral antibiotics.