Chiggers are parasitic insects that are closely related to ticks. It is important to note that these small-sized bugs can attach on the skin and inject saliva into the skin cells. The saliva of chiggers has a tough digestive enzyme that dissolves the skin cells, thus allowing the bug to consume them. The itchiness that occurs is basically an allergic reaction to the saliva. It is important to note that women and children are more prone to suffer from these bugs since their skin tends to be more appealing. Luckily, only a few cases of chigger bites are serious.
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For those who have been outdoors in the woods or open field during, spring, summer or fall, chiggers are likely to stick on the ankles or waistband. These insects leave behind red, itchy bumps on the skin. Take note that chiggers do not burrow under the skin but only feed on the fluids in the skin cells. Chiggers are 0.5mm in diameter, thus they are too small to be seen with the naked eye. The invisibility of these insects is one reason why many believe that chiggers burrow under the skin.
Symptoms
In most cases of chigger bites on children, a small-sized, elevated lesion will develop on the skin surrounding the bite site. The itchiness and pain can develop along with the swelling of the affected area. There is also a reddish color caused by the inflammation. Children who develop an allergic reaction to the chigger bites can also suffer from swelling or blistering on the skin.
Treatment for chigger bites
You can start by cleaning the site of the bite using water and soap in order to remove the chigger if it is still present as well as minimize the risk of infection due to the open wound. You can provide the child with antihistamine if the itchiness is severe. As for sore bites, you can provide the child with acetaminophen. A cool compress or calamine lotion can be applied to reduce the itchiness and pain in the bite site. If you want to learn how to effectively manage a chigger bite, click here.
When to consult a doctor
There are some cases of chigger bites that require medical care from a doctor. This usually includes persistent itchiness or pain in the site or severe redness, swelling and warmth at the site of the bite. In some cases, there is drainage of liquid from the bite site that would also require medical attention as well as fever.
When it comes to severe allergic reactions, it would also require immediate emergency care since it can be life-threatening. Always watch out for serious symptoms and do not delay medical care. The symptoms that indicates that the condition is a medical emergency include tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, hives, dizziness, faintness and nausea or vomiting.