Overview
Scabies is a contagious skin rash caused by the tiny burrowing mite, Sarcoptes scabiei. The mite's burrowing activity causes intense itching, which is often worse at night. Scabies spreads quickly through close person-to-person contact, making it essential to treat the entire family or close contacts.
Types of Scabies
Scabies is classified into two main types:
- Infantile scabies: This type affects children under the age of 2 and is characterized by a more severe rash and higher mite load.
- Adult scabies: This type affects adults and is characterized by a less severe rash and lower mite load.
Causes of Scabies
Scabies is caused by the bite of a female mite, which lays eggs in the skin. The mite's larvae hatch and burrow into the skin, causing intense itching and inflammation.
Risk Factors of Scabies
Several factors increase the risk of developing scabies, including:
- Close contact with an infected person: Scabies spreads quickly through close contact, such as in families, child care groups, schools, or nursing homes.
- Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene and lack of regular bathing can increase the risk of developing scabies.
- Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications, are more susceptible to scabies.
Symptoms of Scabies
The symptoms of scabies typically include:Preventions of Scabies
Preventing scabies involves:
- Maintaining good hygiene: Regular bathing and washing clothes can help prevent scabies.
- Avoiding close contact: Avoiding close contact with an infected person can help prevent transmission.
- Wearing loose clothing: Wearing loose clothing can help prevent mites from burrowing into the skin.
Diagnosis of Scabies
Diagnosing scabies typically involves a combination of:
- Physical examination: A physical examination to assess for signs of scabies.
- Skin scraping: A skin scraping may be performed to collect skin samples for examination.
- Microscopy: Microscopy may be used to examine the skin samples for evidence of mites.
Treatment for Scabies
Treating scabies involves:
- Medicated creams or pills: Medicated creams or pills may be prescribed to kill the mites and their eggs.
- Good hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene and regular bathing can help reduce the risk of transmission.
- Avoiding scratching: Avoiding scratching can help prevent secondary infections.
When to seek medical attention ?
If you experience symptoms such as intense itching, rash, or blisters, it is essential to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the risk of complications.
