What Are the Symptoms of Genital Crabs?

Genital crabs are considered a sexually transmitted infection. Skin on skin contact is usually necessary for the crabs to be transmitted from one person to another; however, a person may also get crabs by sharing intimate clothing, bedding or towels with an infected person. Crabs can usually be self-diagnosed, but a visit to your physician is warranted if you do have crabs because she will be able to prescribe a treatment plan.

Itching

Crabs, which are also known as pubic lice, cause itching in the genital area. This is because crabs are parasites that burrow into the skin to suck blood from the host. Oftentimes, the area near the crabs is irritated and inflamed. In some cases, the patient may feel no symptoms. The itching is usually constant; however, if the infestation isn't severe, it may come and go.

Lesions

Small lesions may form on the genital area as a result of scratching. Take note of signs of infection in the area, which includes redness around the lesion, discharge coming from the lesion or warmth in the area of the lesion.

Discoloration

A person with crabs may notice discoloration in his underwear. This discoloration is because of blood droplets that come out of the bite area. A blue area where the crab bit the host will usually be visible when the hair is moved. Small black or brown spots at the base of the hair may be noticeable. These spots are the crabs or their eggs, which are sometimes called nits.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a symptom of crabs when a lot of crabs have bitten the host. The fatigue may be sporadic or it may be constant. In some cases, it won't be alleviated by sleep or rest. A mild fever sometimes accompanies the fatigue. Generally, the fever can be managed using over-the-counter medications.