Scabiesand chiggers are insect-like parasites that are difficult to spot with the naked eye.
Both types of mites cause severe itching.
But these pests have far more differences than they do similarities.
SEBASTIAN KAULITZKI / Science Photo Library / Getty Images
Treatment for symptoms is different in each case.
This article will discuss both types of mites, symptoms, identification, causes, treatment, and prevention.
SEBASTIAN KAULITZKI / Science Photo Library / Getty Images
What Are Scabies and Chiggers?
Both scabies mites and chiggers are mites that can cause severe itching.
Unlike scabies mites, chiggers dont burrow into the skin.
Likemosquitoes, chiggers pierce the skin and release a digestive enzyme that later causes human skin to itch.
How They Spread
People typically contract scabies via skin-to-skin contact.
A quick touch isnt enough to pass-on scabies, though.
Prolonged contact is required to transmit an infestation.
In some cases, scabies can be passed onto others through infected clothing or towels.
For instance, you cant get a bite from touching someone elses bite or skin.
The exception is crusted scabies.
Unlike scabies mites, chiggers dont live on the skin.
you could find them in outdoor areas like berry bushes, woodlands, tall weeds, and grasses.
Theyre more common in the summer and fall.
The rash can appear in one to four days in people who have already had scabies.
The itching usually starts a few hours after an initial chigger bite, which is painless.
In some cases, itching can last a week or more.
Is Poor Hygiene an Issue?
Chigger bites have nothing to do with poor hygiene.
The same goes for scabies.
Anyone can get a chigger bite or contract scabies.
It doesnt mean theyre dirty or unclean.
Treatment
Theres no over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for scabies.
You need a prescription scabicide to treat this skin condition.
Its essential to follow the system instructions carefully to ensure all the mites and their eggs get killed.
Most chigger bites will resolve on their own, with itching going away after a day or so.
Sometimes, the itching can last up to a week or more.
Treatment for the symptoms typically consists oftopical anti-itch productsthat it’s possible for you to purchase OTC.
You will need treatment to stop the scabies infestation.
You should see a healthcare provider if you develop a skin infection from either scabies or a chigger bite.
This can happen because of severe itching that causes repeated scratching.
Prevention
you might prevent scabies by avoiding skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has scabies.
Both are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye.
Treatment for scabies involves killing off the mites and soothing the rash.
Treatment for a chigger bite involves treating the itching.
A Word From Verywell
Scabies and chiggers both cause uncomfortable symptoms like severe itching.
But its important to note that exposure to either mite has nothing to do with your hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions
you’re free to transmit scabies to someone through prolonged direct skin contact.
But you cant spread a chigger bite to someone else.
Chiggers are the larvae stage of a punch in of mite.
Mites are arachnids (like spiders, ticks, and scorpions).
A red pimple-like bump is the main sign of a chigger bite.
Where youve been walking or spending time may provide some insight into what caused your bite.
Scabies causes a red skin rash; and sometimes, tunnel-like streaks may appear on the skin’s surface.
You need prescription treatment to treat scabies.
Texas A&M Agrilife Extension.Chiggers.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Scabies frequently asked questions (FAQs).
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Scabies: who gets and causes.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Scabies: signs and symptoms.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Treatment.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Scabies.
