If you’ve ever had a case of chiggers, you know how itchy and uncomfortable they can be. These tiny pests, also known as red bugs or harvest mites, are common in the summer and fall months and can be found in a variety of outdoor settings, including gardens, woods, and parks. Unfortunately, chiggers can also find their way into your bed, making it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.
What are chiggers?
Chiggers are the larvae of a type of mite called Trombiculidae. They are incredibly small, measuring only about 1/150th of an inch long. They have six legs and are typically red or orange in color. Chiggers are most active in the warm months, typically from spring through fall.
How do chiggers get into your bed?
Chiggers are often found in tall grass and weeds, and they can easily attach themselves to clothing and skin. If you spend time outdoors in areas where chiggers are present, it’s possible to bring them into your home on your clothing or shoes. Once inside, chiggers can crawl into your bed and start biting, making it difficult to sleep.
Symptoms of Chigger Bites
The most obvious symptom of chigger bites is intense itching. The bites typically appear as small red bumps that can be extremely itchy. In severe cases, the bites may blister or become infected. Other symptoms of chigger bites include hives, rash, and fever.
Preventing Chiggers in Your Bed
To prevent chiggers from getting into your bed, it’s important to take steps to keep them out of your home in the first place. Here are a few tips to help prevent chiggers from invading your chiggers in bed:
- Keep tall grass and weeds around your home trimmed
- Wear long pants and sleeves when spending time in areas where chiggers are common
- Take a shower or bath immediately after spending time outdoors
- Wash your clothes and bedding regularly
- Use a bug spray containing DEET
Treatment for Chigger Bites
If you do end up with chigger bites, there are a few things you can do to relieve the itching and discomfort. Over-the-counter anti-itch creams and calamine lotion can help to soothe the bites. You can also try taking an antihistamine to reduce itching and swelling. In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid cream or oral medication.
In conclusion, Chiggers are tiny pests that can cause a lot of discomfort. They can easily find their way into your bed, making it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. By taking preventative measures, such as keeping tall grass and weeds trimmed, wearing long pants and sleeves, and taking a shower or bath immediately after spending time outdoors, you can reduce your chances of getting chiggers in bed bites. If you do end up with chigger bites, there are several treatments available to relieve the itching and discomfort.
