How to: Cures for Jiggers

Jiggers, also referred to as chiggers or harvest mites, can be a big problem in certain areas of the country. Their bites cause swelling and inflammation, but the worst symptom of a jigger bite is itching. Curing a jigger bite is often a matter of treating the itching symptoms -- and letting the skin heal itself, over the course of one or two weeks -- as scratching will inflame the area and possibly prolong the healing process.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Calamine lotion or other corticosteroid
• Antihistamine

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash the affected area with soap. For best results, take a hot shower or bath. This will remove the jigger from the skin, if it is still attached.

• 2

  Apply a corticosteroid lotion such as Calamine, to the affected area. Follow all instructions and warnings on the product's packaging.

• 3

  Take an antihistamine such as Benadryl, if the itching still persists, as this can sometimes calm the itching sensation. Follow the products instructions and warnings as to proper use.

• 4

  See a physician if you notice signs of an infection, such as redness and inflammation -- or if the bite does not seem to have improved after several days.