In this Article

• What are chiggers?
• What do chiggers look like?
• How do chiggers bite humans?
• What are the symptoms of chigger bites?
• What is the treatment for chigger bites?
• What are the complications of chigger bites?
• How can chigger bites be prevented?
• Chiggers At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Chiggers: Effective Treatment
• Chiggers (Bites) Glossary
• Chiggers (Bites) Index

What are the symptoms of chigger bites?

A chigger bite itself is not noticeable. After the chigger has begun to inject digestive enzymes into the skin (usually after about 1-3 hours), symptoms typically begin.

• Pronounced itching is the most common symptom.
  
  
• The area of the bite may be reddened, flat, or raised; sometimes it resembles a pustule or blister.
  
  
• The itch is due to the presence of the stylostome and usually is most intense within 1-2 days after the bite.
  
  
• The itching persists for several days, and complete resolution of the skin lesions can take up to two weeks.

What is the treatment for chigger bites?

Many home remedies for chigger bites are based upon the incorrect belief that chiggers burrow into and remain in the skin. Nail polish, alcohol, and bleach have been applied to the bites to attempt to "suffocate" or kill the chiggers. But because the chiggers are not present in the skin, these methods are not effective.

Treatment for chigger bites is directed toward relieving the itching and inflammation. Calamine lotion and corticosteroid creams may be used to control itching. Oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), may also be used for symptom relief.

What are complications of chigger bites?

Chigger bites themselves do not produce any long-term complications. However, because of the intense itching, prolonged scratching may lead to skin wounds that may become infected by bacteria.

Chiggers: Effective Treatment

The MedicineNet physician editors ask:

What treatment was most effective for the chiggers?

Comment submissions for this question have ended.
See 23 Viewer Comments

View Comments

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• calamine lotion-topical - Consumer information about the medication CALAMINE LOTION - TOPICAL , includes side effects, drug interactions, recommended dosages, and storage information. Read more about the prescription drug CALAMINE LOTION - TOPICAL.
• Itching - Learn the causes and treatments for itching (itch). Dry skin, fungus, sunburn and bites may cause itching. Excessive scratching may lead to thickened skin (lichenification).
• Insect Sting Allergies - Learn more about insect sting allergies, including a description, risk factors, types of reactions, treatment options, avoidance, and immunity.

Read more Chiggers (Bites) related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Boomers Doomed to Disability?
• Gender Divorce Gap After Illness Strikes
• Cigarette Smoking's Decline Levels Off
• 22 Million Cases of Swine Flu in U.S.