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Chigger Bites

Chiggers are microscopic insects which lead some people to believe that they enter the skin – they do not.

Insect repellants containing DEET and tick repellant containing permythrine are effective ways to ward off Chiggers before they bite. 

Keeping lawns mowed and removing weeds will also keep the chigger populations down.

Taking a bath of shower after being exposed to lawns and woodsy areas where chiggers congregate will lessen the chances of carry chiggers on your body.

Chigger bites are common in tight places on the body; they will bite under bras, tight underwear, socks, inside shoes, under arm pits and in the genital area.  Wearing loose clothing keeps down the chances of chigger bites.

If you apply a nail varnish to the infected area, it will prevent air from entering the site. Exposure to air makes chigger bites itchy.

Benadryl will relief the itching. Antihistamine topical creams such as hydrocortisone with Aloe or Caladryl will also relieve itching.  Not only will the creams stop the itching but they will prevent infection from setting in. 

However, if the itching continues after several weeks, it is time to seek medical attention. Chigger bites sometimes require medical care.
 

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