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Alternative names Return to top
Harvest mite; Red miteDefinition Return to top
Chiggers are the larvae of a type of mite found in tall grass and weeds. Chigger bites cause severe itching.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The mites are found in the southern part of the U.S. and in other countries. They are usually restricted to certain habitats such as berry patches, tall grass and weeds, and woodland edges. The larvae attack humans around the waist, the ankles, or in warm skin folds.
The itching usually occurs several hours after the larvae attach to the skin. The larvae can sometimes be seen in the center of a red, pimple-like bump that has not been scratched.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
A doctor can diagnose chiggers by examining the rash.Treatment Return to top
The objective of treatment is to relieve the itching. Antihistamines and corticosteroid creams or lotions may be helpful.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
This condition heals itself without treatment.Complications Return to top
Secondary infection may follow intense scratching as a complication.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Apply home treatment and call your health care provider if there are signs of complications.Prevention Return to top
Avoid outdoor areas contaminated with chiggers, if known. Update Date: 4/22/2003 Updated by: Elizabeth Hait, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |