Chiggers are the larval stage of the trombiculid mites, also known as red mites. These live in low, damp areas where humidity is high. Thus, people often get bitten by chiggers when they trod on forest floors, golf courses, bushes, and along lakes and streams.
Chiggers Itch
- Those who have been bitten by chiggers know just how itchy the bites are. Many describe the itch as maddening – very itchy, indeed.
- The bitten areas may actually form rashes and welts.
- Most of the time, the chigger crawl to soft areas, attaching themselves there. They do not burrow under the skin but only cling to the places they have bitten.
- Why do chigger bites itch so much? Well, the bite itself does not itch. However, the chiggers will inject digestive enzymes into the skin that break down the skin cells of the hosts. When the skin cells are broken down, it is easier for the chigger to feed on the host.
- These digestive enzymes are the ones that really cause the itch.
- Still, the itch often occurs only when the larvae have detached from the skin.
Chiggers Itch Relief
- Those who have been bitten by the chiggers surely want to know how to relieve this maddening itch.
- Many people would suggest using nail polish or alcohol to try to suffocate the chiggers. However, although this might seem to provide a little relief, the chiggers are not really suffocated. So, the itch will continue to bother the patient.
- Still, it is very important to provide immediate relief from the itch so that the patient will not scratch on the skin too much and cause it to break. Open wound from the scratches will only open the patient for complications such as infections.
- So, what remedies can provide quick relief from the itch caused by chiggers?
Chiggers Itch Home Remedies
- Well, it is actually a good idea to first get rid of the chiggers before providing treatment. This can be done using bath sponge/towel and soap. Rub on all the itchy areas to try to remove traces of the chiggers.
- It is also a good idea to take an oatmeal bath. This will help soothe the reddened and itchy areas.
- Make a paste out of baking soda and water. Use this paste on top of the bitten areas.
- Other options that also prove effective include tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil.
