Scabies

What is Scabies?

Scabies, previously known as the seven-year itch, is a contagious skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. These mites dig deep into your skin to deposit eggs and live, and cause an allergic reaction. It starts with a little itchiness in between the fingers, wrists, or near the waistline and turns into severe itching, rashes, and pimples. Scabies typically target the young and is often worse at night. It often spreads by direct skin contact with an infected person (possibly during sex). The spread of the disease may occur even when the person has no symptoms. Crusted scabies is an advanced type of scabies. It only affects people with poor immune systems. Scabies starts as a small rash or a pimple that is itchy. It then progresses to form tiny burrows in the skin.

Symptoms

Symptoms surface 2 - 6 weeks later. When a person develops a second infection, symptoms show up in a day. The rash itself can consist of pimple-like bumps or tiny blisters. Common symptoms include:

  • Rash.
  • Erratic itching, which gets worse at night.
  • Constant scratching of the infected area.
  • Irritation.

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Causes

The most probable causes of the disease include:

  • Immune system reacting to mites.
  • Extreme itching.

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Risks

The main risk factors of the disease include:

  • Direct touch with the person who is infected (for example shaking a hand or hugging).
  • Sexual contact with the infected person.
  • Keeping the skin exposed to the sun.

 

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Prevention

In order to prevent the occurrence of the disease, one should take care of the following:

  • Avoiding contact with the infected person.
  • Protecting your skin from the powerful sun.
  • Taking a nutrient and vitamin rich diet.

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How is it diagnosed?

At Medanta, the doctor will examine the infected area by:

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How is it treated?

At Medanta, our doctor will instruct you how to use medications at night, when the mites are most active. You may need to treat all of your skin, from the neck down. Bedding and towels will have to be changed daily. Some other treatments include:<..

  • Ointments and lotions

    Some ointments for scabies according to the American Academy of Dermatologists (AAD) are, 5% permethrin cream, and 10% crotamiton cream. They will gradually bring relief from itching and irritation.

  • Medications

    The doctor might also prescribe additional medicines that offer respite from the bothersome symptoms of scabies. Oral medications can also be provided in case of severe itching or rashes.

When do I contact the doctor?

One should immediately consult a doctor if they begin to face symptoms like excessive pain, rash, and irritation. All these symptoms are going to be dealt with, just right with the help of our medical expertise at Medanta. 

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