About Effective Treatment for Scabies

Overview

Scabies is a type of microscopic mite that burrows under the skin. Scabies are considered highly contagious and preventative measures should be taken so that they are not passed on from person to person. Because they are only spread through direct human contact, scabies generally cannot be contracted through casual contact. Knowing how to get effective treatment for scabies will help stop the itch and eliminate the mite.

Symptoms

Before getting treatment for scabies, it is important to know what the symptoms of the condition are. The most bothersome symptom is the intense and constant itching. This is caused from an allergic reaction from the mite itself. When they infest the skin, they often create a burrow or track mark under the skin. This is generally the area that itches the most. Even after the mite leaves that particular area, the skin can still remain itchy and irritated. Other symptoms may include red patches or pimples on the skin or a crust that is generally caused from infected skin from scratching and digging. The mite tends to be most active in the nighttime hours---this is when the itching can be the most intense.

Prevention

Effective treatment for scabies also begins with initial prevention. The best way to prevent getting scabies is to avoid skin-to-skin contact with the person who is infested. This means no rubbing skin or sharing unwashed laundry that the person may have been wearing. Most people cannot get scabies from casual hand shaking or hugs, unless they come in direct contact with a mite. If you suspect that you have come in contact with a mite, follow through with a consultation with your doctor.

Treatment

Treatment for scabies often involves the person affected and all of her immediate household members. The only way to kill the scabies mite is to use creams or pills. Permethrin cream or Elimite is a type of topical cream that is applied all over the body. This cream kills the mites. Lindane or Kwell is also a cream used to kill scabies. Ivermectin or Stromectol is a type of pill that is prescribed to treat scabies. The pill is often used in those who have an increased sensitivity to the topical solution. All family members should use the creams and pills as directed. All clothing and sheets should also be washed in hot water to kill any mites that may have fallen off of the skin.

Misconceptions

There are some basic misconceptions regarding scabies and scabies treatment. The biggest one being that scabies can be picked up from dogs who have mites. This is not true. The dog mite only feeds and lives off of canine blood and skin. If one did reach a human body, it would not be able to survive. Do not attempt to treat human scabies with the same medication as canine scabies or the process will be unsuccessful. Another misconception is that scabies are similar to lice. Some people attempt to use lice treatment on their scabies only to find out they haven't gotten rid of the problem.

Complications

There can be complications that result from having scabies, which is why effective treatment is essential. One of the most severe complications is impetigo. This is an infection of the skin caused by invasion of a staphylococci or the streptococci bacteria. Those who have an impaired immune system, such as those with AIDS or certain types of cancers, may face a more advanced widespread form of the disease. Crusted or scaly scabies can also result from scabies that are left untreated. This form of scabies can be highly contagious and difficult to treat.