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Scabies Treatment

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Scabies Treatment at Illinois Dermatology Institute

Each year, nearly 1 million Americans are diagnosed with scabies.

For most, a scabies diagnosis is typically unexpected and alarming. This skin condition can cause physical and emotional distress if left untreated. Scabies is spread worldwide and can affect anyone at any time.

At IDI, we recognize that understanding a scabies diagnosis is imperative to getting the treatment you need sooner.

Don’t go another day with extreme itching; get the help you need sooner with us.

Let’s discuss scabies in more detail.

What is scabies?

Scabies, or sarcoptic mange, is a skin infestation caused by the human itch mite, Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis.

Scabies mites are microscopic and work by burrowing into the upper layer of the skin where it lives and lays its eggs. The mites can live continuously on your skin for months when left untreated.

Types of Scabies

It is essential to note that scabies can only be caused by one type of mite in humans, but they can cause several different types of infestations.

The three most common types include:

  • Typical Scabies– the most common type of scabies that causes an itchy rash on your hands and wrists, but does not infest your scalp or face.
  • Nodular Scabies– this type of infestation causes raised bumps to develop in specific areas of your body like the armpits, groin, or genitals.
  • Norwegian Scabies– also known as crusted scabies, this type is more severe and extremely contagious. People who have this type of infestation develop thick skin crusts filled with thousands of mites and eggs. These areas appear thick, gray and crumble easily to the touch. Norwegian scabies is the rarest form and often develop in those with a weakened immune system.

Scabies Symptoms

Symptoms of scabies appear between 2 to 5 weeks after exposure. The most common symptoms include an intense itching that worsens at night and a rash.

The rash generally consists of:

  • tiny bites
  • hives
  • bumps under the skin that are similar in appearance to pimples

In rare or extensive cases, the burrow tracks of the mite can be seen on the skin and appear as tiny raised or discolored lines.

What causes scabies?

Scabies is the direct result of a mite infestation on the skin. This condition is extremely contagious and can spread easily from one person to another. Direct skin-to-skin contact is the most common way that the infestation spreads.

Scabies can also spread through:

  • shared bedding
  • furniture
  • clothing

How to Get Rid of Scabies

Scabies requires professional medical intervention and treatment to get rid of the infestation.

Treatment often involves prescription ointments, creams, or lotions applied directly to the affected area. Other medication options could include antihistamines, antibiotics, or steroid creams.

Symptoms and infestation should clear within a month of beginning treatment.

To learn more about scabies and effective treatment options to get rid of an infestation now, contact us today. Our experienced team of dermatological professionals is here to help with all of your skincare needs, including skin diseases like scabies.