Mites are microscopic invertebrate organisms that often act as parasites--feeding off of animals, humans, plants and even mold. There are over 45,000 classified species of mite, and they are believed to have been around for over 400 million years. Mites, a close relative of the tick, do occasionally adversely affect humans. They can feed off of humans, and their bites cause skin irritation and itching. The reaction can range from a mild nuisance to a severe irritation accompanied by intense itching. While their bites can be annoying, mites rarely spread any diseases to humans.
Redness and Itching
Mite bites can cause redness similar to those of a mosquito. In most cases, there will be a bump on the red area. The bite may itch severely. Sometimes slight bleeding from scratching can occur in the area of the bite.
Allergies
Dust mites, one of the most common species to interact with humans, are a primary component of dust. They are responsible for many people's allergic reaction to the substance and have been possibly implicated in causing asthma attacks. Red, itchy eyes and a runny nose are the most common allergy symptoms.
Swelling
Scabies mites cause one of the most severe reactions in humans. Unlike other mites who only bite, the scabies mites burrow up to 3cm into human flesh and lay eggs. They feed on skin and secretions. The most common symptom of scabies is an area of tiny red bumps surrounded by extremely dry skin. The victim may also experience a sensation of something crawling under the skin.
Rash
Oftentimes, bites are found in clusters on the stomach, arms and legs in a rash-like pattern. These bites are extremely itchy, often likened to chigger bites or flea bites.
Raw Spots
If the mites continually bite the same area, raw spots will begin to form. In extreme cases, mite bites may bleed and/or ooze. Sometimes, this is caused by the victim scratching the bites. In this case, finding the cause of the mites and correcting it is the only way that the biting will stop. This can mean washing all fabrics in your home in the hottest water possible, shampooing the carpets and vacuuming the furniture.
Tags: most common, area bite, bites cause, have been, their bites