$Unique_ID{BRK01144}
$Pretitle{Infections or Parasites, Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue}
$Title{What Can be Done About "Chigger" Bites?}
$Subject{bites mites chiggers}
$Volume{A, L}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Can be Done About "Chigger" Bites?


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QUESTION:  What can you tell me about "chigger" bites?  They drive me crazy
every year at about this time.  Are they dangerous and what can be done about
them?  Your help would be greatly appreciated.?

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ANSWER:  The "chigger bite" is not really an insect bite but is caused by many
types--as many as 2,500 varieties in the U.S. alone--of mite larvae.  It is
the combination of the digestive enzymes secreted by the mite larvae and the
host reaction the creates the typical "bite".  Such bites usually are not
really dangerous but some reactions to them can be toxic in certain people
highly allergic to them.
     Chiggers feed on dissolved skin cells (not on blood as many believe).
They drop off the skin usually in a very short period of time and often are
scratched off rather quickly.  Nevertheless, a reddish, swollen spot will
appear where the chigger "bit" and intense itching usually occurs which can
last for about seven to ten days.
     Unfortunately, chiggers are found during warm weather just about
everywhere in the country on vegetation such as grass, scrubs, trees, etc.
     Prevention is the best treatment and a good insect repellent, applied
liberally around your sleeve and pants cuffs, sock tops and waistbands, can be
effective.
     If that fails, mild bites are helped with baths in which starch has been
added to the water, and calamine lotion applied to the skin.  In severe cases,
your doctor may prescribe antihistamines, steroid creams, and/or steroid
tablets, to get you over an intense reaction.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
