Scabies, otherwise known as sarcoptes scabiei, is an itchy skin condition caused by a tiny eight-legged microscopic mite that burrows under the skin. It is not particular about who it infests and anyone can get it, regardless of hygiene. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, this mite has been infesting humans for over 2,500 years, and there are over 300 million cases reported each year worldwide. Scabies is contagious and can spread very quickly. It is easily treated, and if suspected, should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Step 1
Examine your skin for tiny blisters which could be burrow tracks made by the mites. The tracks will look thin and irregular. Although they can appear anywhere on the skin, they typically appear in skin folds, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 2
Feel your skin for tiny bumps, bites or pimples. These skin changes could indicate a scabies infestation, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Notify your doctor right away if you have any of these skin changes.
Step 3
Look for signs of crusty or scaly skin caused by scratching. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, itching is the most common sign of scabies and happens most often at night. Again, you should notify your doctor at once if you have these symptoms.
Step 4
Check children for scabies by examining the scalp, face, neck, palms of the hands and soles of the feet. According to MayoClinic.com, these are the most common places for a scabies infestation. Common sites for adults are multiple and include fingers, armpits, waist, breasts, male genitals, wrists, elbows, buttocks, knees, soles of the feet and shoulder blades.
Step 5
Make an appointment with your doctor. She will look for signs of mites and may even take a scraping of your skin to examine under a microscope. If she determines you have scabies, she will prescribe creams and lotions you apply to your skin to kill the mites. Since scabies is highly contagious and spreads rapidly, your doctor may also decide to treat your entire family, according to MayoClinic.com.
Tips and Warnings
- Prevent reinfestation by washing all clothing and linens in hot soapy water and drying them in a hot dryer.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you have signs or symptoms of scabies.
