If you do break the skin, you should see your doctor.
Talk to your doctor before applying calamine lotion on children under the age of 12. You should also speak to your doctor if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Be sure to follow all directions on the bottle, including dosage instructions. You can reapply the lotion every few hours, as needed. [4] X Research source
Use the smallest dose possible and wait at least 4 hours before reapplying the cream. [5] X Research source If the cream doesn’t relieve your itch, you may need something stronger. Your doctor can prescribe a stronger treatment. Do not apply the cream to a child under the age of 12 without talking to a doctor. Make sure that you follow all of the directions on the bottle.
Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging, as they vary. For example, some antihistamines may be taken every 4 hours, but others are taken once a day. Talk to your doctor before taking an antihistamine, especially if you’re already on medication.
It’s best to only take one oatmeal bath per day, as the oatmeal can dry out your skin if you bathe in it for too long or too often. Dry skin will make your itch worse. [6] X Research source Colloidal oatmeal is finely ground oatmeal that is intended for bathing. You can find it online or at drugstores. Alternatively, you could use baking soda instead of oatmeal. Simply sprinkle about 1 cup (128 g) of baking soda into warm water.
If the bites aren’t better in one week, see your doctor, even if the itching is manageable. [7] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Your doctor can provide you with treatments that are not available over-the-counter. Signs of potential infection include skin that is inflamed, hot to the touch, or leaking pus.
Follow all instructions on the medication, including your dosage instructions. You may be able to apply the cream every few hours, but follow your doctor’s advice. If you’re pregnant or nursing, your doctor may decide that steroid creams are not a good option for you. If the cream is for a child under 12, ask the doctor to clarify the correct dosage and frequency. The doctor may recommend using an over-the-counter option instead. Use as little of the cream as possible. Additionally, you should not get it on the skin surrounding the bite. [8] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Be sure to finish the entire bottle of medication, even if you start feeling better early.
Since they are small enough to pass through screens, closed windows are the best way to prevent them from entering your home.
Raking leaves puts you at the greatest risk for encountering mites because they often live on oak leaves. [10] X Research source Rubber gloves can protect your hands better than leather ones. [11] X Research source
Since it’s not always effective, it’s a good idea to use DEET in addition to other protective measures, such as wearing extra clothing. Be sure to follow all instructions and warnings. Like all insecticides, DEET can be harmful if used incorrectly.
Always use a pet shampoo that is formulated for that particular animal. Do not use human shampoo, as this can be harmful to your pets.
