How to Cure Scabies or Chigger Bites
Scabies and chigger bites are both painful conditions caused by microscopic mites. Scabies is an itchy skin condition resulting from contact with eight-legged mites and is usually spread quickly throughout a family or school classroom. Chiggers are six-legged mites that are often found in tall grasses and weeds. Both scabies and chigger bites cause itching and blisters or hives. Scabies can appear almost anywhere on the body, while chigger bites usually appear around the waist, ankles, or skin folds. Treatment for scabies or chigger bites is usually similar and takes several weeks to finish, though scabies more often require a doctor's prescription remedy in addition to at-home treatments.
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Instructions
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1
Resist the urge to scratch scabies or chigger bites. Scratching can spread and worsen the condition. Use an over-the-counter anti-itching gel, cream, or lotion to help reduce the urge to scratch.
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2
Take an over-the-counter antihistamine. Medical attention is rarely required for chigger bites unless the condition is severe or does not go away. Antihistamines help to reduce the itching caused by scabies and chigger bites.
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3
Visit a doctor to obtain a prescription medication to treat scabies. Scabies can spread to other people through physical contact. Doctors usually prescribe crotamiton or permethrin creams to actually kill the mites. However, this will not necessarily stop the itching so the at-home remedies outlined in Steps 1 and 2 are usually needed to alleviate that condition.
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Applying a cool washcloth or soaking in cold bathwater may also help alleviate the itching from scabies or chigger bites.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember that severe scratching can create a secondary infection in both scabies and chigger bites. Treating the itching with available remedies can help prevent this possibility.
Do not stop taking any prescribed cream or pill for scabies (or in extreme cases of chigger bites) when you feel better. Follow your doctor's advice to prevent a second infection.
