Scabies, a common and contagious skin infection, is caused by a microscopic mite, Sarcoptes scabiei. The chief symptom is itchy skin, which is worse at night or after bathing in hot water, reports the FamilyDoctor website. The scabies mites are not visible; however, affected skin may be covered by a red rash, pimples or pus-filled blisters. For a period of weeks, several aftereffects of scabies may be present, even though the mites have been successfully eliminated.
Itchy Skin
Once treatment has begun, the rash and bothersome itching of scabies are reduced after a couple of days; however, mild or moderate itching may last for several weeks, reports Aetna InteliHealth. People with such itching can perform home treatments, such as soaking the affected skin in cool water or applying calamine lotion, which is available over the counter.
Because the itching is caused by an allergic reaction to the scabies mite, people with persistent itching may try an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine. This antihistamine, which is available as a liquid, pill or dissolving strip, relieves itching and sleeplessness.
Skin Infection
If the infected area is vigorously or consistently scratched, a sore may develop that becomes infected, reports FamilyDoctor. This happens to children who constantly scratch their itchy skin. The most common infection is impetigo, a superficial skin infection that is usually caused by staphylococci bacteria and, occasionally, streptococci, reports MayoClinic.com. Impetigo requires treatment with an antibiotic, which must be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Transference to Others
Although scabies typically spreads by skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual, scabies may be transmitted by contact with bedding, towels and even furniture touched by an infected person, reports Aetna InteliHealth. People living in close quarters with an infected person are at risk, including those in daycare centers, prisons and nursing homes. Mites can only live up to one week without eating, reports MayoClinic.com. Thus, sealing bedding and towels in a plastic bag for a suitable period of time may be an alternative to washing the items.
Altered Response
People who have had scabies previously will exhibit symptoms within one to four days if they are infected with the mites again, reports the Michigan Department of Community Health. In contrast, symptoms -- including itchy skin -- may not appear for up to six weeks in people experiencing their first bout of scabies.
