What are Scabies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Scabies is a common skin condition caused by tiny mites known as Sarcoptes scabiei.

These microscopic pests burrow into the skin, leading to an itchy and uncomfortable rash.

Scabies is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in close living quarters.

In this article, we will delve into the details of scabies, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

Note: this article isn’t for health purposes

What are Scabies?

Scabies is a parasitic infestation of the skin caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. The mite’s burrowing activity, coupled with its eggs and feces, triggers an allergic reaction in the host’s skin. This results in the characteristic itchy rash and red bumps associated with scabies.

How do Scabies Spread?

Scabies spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. The mites can also pass onto clothing, bedding, and furniture, allowing for indirect transmission. Scabies outbreaks often occur in crowded places like nursing homes, childcare centers, and dormitories.

What are the Symptoms of Scabies?

The most common symptom of scabies is intense itching, especially at night. The rash typically appears as small red bumps or blisters, often in the webbed areas between fingers, wrists, elbows, armpits, and waistline. In infants and young children, the rash may extend to the scalp, face, neck, and palms of the hands.

How is Scabies Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosing scabies involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional. The doctor may also perform a skin scraping to confirm the presence of the mites, eggs, or fecal matter.

Treatment for scabies usually involves applying prescription topical creams or lotions containing permethrin or ivermectin.

In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed. It is essential to treat all family members and close contacts, even if they don’t show symptoms, to prevent reinfestation.

FAQs

Can you catch scabies from pets?

No, the type of scabies that affects humans is caused by a specific mite called Sarcoptes scabiei, which does not infest animals.

How long does it take for scabies symptoms to appear after exposure?

It can take anywhere from two to six weeks for symptoms to appear after coming into contact with someone infected with scabies.

Can scabies live on furniture and bedding?

Scabies mites can survive for about 48-72 hours away from a human host, so it’s essential to wash and vacuum bedding and furniture to reduce the risk of transmission.

Can over-the-counter creams treat scabies?

Over-the-counter creams may not be effective in treating scabies. It is best to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and prescription-strength treatments.