Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This microscopic parasite burrows into the skin and causes intense itching, which is often worse at night.

Scabies can affect anyone, but it is more common in crowded living situations such as nursing homes or prisons. In this article, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of scabies.

Causes of Scabies

As mentioned, scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This tiny parasite is about 0.4 mm in length and cannot be seen with the naked eye. The mite burrows into the skin and lays eggs, which hatch and develop into more mites.

Scabies is highly contagious and can be spread through close skin-to-skin contact or by sharing bedding, clothing, or towels with an infected person. The mite can survive for up to three days without a human host, so it is important to thoroughly clean any surfaces that may have come into contact with an infected person.

Symptoms of Scabies

The most common symptom of scabies is intense itching, which is often worse at night. The itching is caused by an allergic reaction to the mite and its feces. Other symptoms of scabies may include:.

1. Rash

A scabies rash appears as small, red bumps or blisters. The rash is often found in folds of skin, such as between fingers, on the wrists, elbows, or knees. In infants, the rash may also appear on the scalp or face.

Scratching the rash can lead to skin infections, so it is important to avoid scratching.

2. Pimple-Like Bumps

Scabies can cause small, pimple-like bumps to form on the skin. These bumps may be filled with clear fluid or pus and can be very itchy.

3. Scales or Crusts

In some cases, scabies can cause the skin to become scaly or crusty. This is more common in people with weakened immune systems or in those who have had scabies for a long time.

4. Sores

As mentioned, scratching the scabies rash can lead to skin infections. These infections can cause open sores to form on the skin, which can be painful and may require antibiotics to treat.

5. Mite Burrows

Although they cannot be seen with the naked eye, mite burrows are a hallmark sign of scabies. These are thin, grayish-white, thread-like lines on the skin, which may be surrounded by a rash or bumps.

Mite burrows are often found in webs between the fingers, in the armpits, around the waist, or on the genitals.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Scabies

If you suspect that you have scabies, it is important to see a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Your healthcare provider may be able to diagnose scabies by examining the rash and looking for mite burrows.

In some cases, a skin scraping may be taken to look for mites under a microscope.

The most common treatment for scabies is a topical cream or lotion that contains permethrin, ivermectin, or lindane. These medications kill the mites and their eggs, but it may take a few weeks for the itching and rash to go away completely.

It is important to follow the instructions for use carefully and to contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve or if new symptoms develop.

In addition to medication, it is important to thoroughly clean all clothing, bedding, and towels that may have come into contact with an infected person. These items should be washed in hot water and dried on high heat.

It is also important to vacuum carpets and furniture, and to avoid close contact with others until the scabies infestation has been treated.

Preventing Scabies

Scabies can be difficult to prevent, especially in crowded living situations such as nursing homes or prisons. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting scabies:.

1. Avoid close contact with people who have scabies.

2. Do not share clothing, bedding, or towels with an infected person.

3. Wash clothing and bedding in hot water and dry on high heat.

4. Vacuum carpets and furniture frequently.

5. If you have scabies, avoid close contact with others until the infestation has been treated.

Conclusion

Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. The most common symptom of scabies is intense itching, which is often worse at night.

Other symptoms may include a rash, pimple-like bumps, scales or crusts, sores, and mite burrows. Scabies can be treated with medication and by thoroughly cleaning clothing, bedding, and towels. To prevent scabies, avoid close contact with infected people and do not share personal items.