Know the different types of mite bites and their treatments.
Camping and hiking to remote places will most likely bring you insect and mite bites. From small, bumpy rashes to larger, raised patches of skin, insect and mite bites vary in shape, effect and modes of treatment. Knowing what type of bite you have is the first step to knowing treat the affected area. Mites are often too small to be seen by the naked human eye, unlike insects where you can try to shoo or swat them away to avoid being bitten. Does this Spark an idea?
Ticks
A trip to a heavily forested area will most likely result to a tick bite or two. Ticks are relatively large compared to mites, since you can take out a tick with your fingers or a pair of tweezers. If you see a tick attached to your skin, just gently pull it away to disengage its teeth. An antiseptic solution or soap must be used to clean the affected area to prevent infection and itching.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are tiny creatures that feed on ash, dust, human skin flakes, cloth fibers, hair particles and fungal spores. They live in textiles and fabric such as carpets, bed sheets, curtains and mattresses where they come in direct contact to human skin. Dust mite bites can cause a fine rash covering the skin directly in contact with the infected fabric. They can also trigger an asthma attack. There are specially designed pillows and sheets that inhibit the growth of dust mites.
Chiggers
Chiggers are six-legged mites whose larvae bite animals and humans. They inject their saliva into the punctured wound instead of burrowing themselves into their victim's skin. The saliva causes the red, itchy bites and can sometimes trigger an allergic reaction to the victim. Bites often appear in clusters in areas that often come in contact with clothing. A warm shower immediately after noticing the bites can help wash away the remaining mites within the area.
Scabies Mites
Scabies mites are responsible for the scabies skin condition, which is an itchy and contagious rash on the skin. Scabies mites burrow under the skin, causing the breakout of the rashes and an allergic reaction to some individuals. Insecticidal soap and medicated ointments are needed to get rid of the infection. Scabies mites get transferred from one person to another by means of physical contact from an infected person. Hugging, kissing, shaking of hands and touching will allow the mites to transfer.
Tags: mite bites, Scabies mites, affected area, allergic reaction, contact with, human skin