Scabies is a skin infestation caused by a microscopic mite. The tiny mite burrows under the skin causing an extremely itchy reaction. This common infestation occurs in over 300 million people around the world each year, states the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Scabies is contagious and can easily transmit by direct contact from person to person or from contact with clothing or bedding of the infected individual. Treatment for scabies includes using a prescription medication placed on the skin before bed. Recognizing symptoms is important for proper treatment and to decrease the likelihood of transmitting the mite.
Itching
The itching associated with a scabies infestation is intense at times and is the most common symptom associated with the condition. At night while in bed, the itching and urge to scratch may be stronger, according to the Mayo Clinic. A hot bath may also increase the itching of scabies. The itching associated with the infestation is from an allergic reaction to the mite laying eggs under the skin. With proper hygiene, it may be a month before itching begins, according to AAD.
Rash
Small red bumps may appear on the skin. The bumps appear like hives and may contain fluid. The fluid drains if the bumps get scratched open. Over time, without treatment, the skin may appear thick, scaly and contain crusty, scabbed areas from healing bumps.
Red Lines on Skin
As the mite burrows down into the skin laying eggs, a red line may develop on the skin. The line often appears around the wrist or between fingers, states TeensHealth, a service of The Nemours Center for Children's Health Media--a non-profit organization devoted to the health of children. The lines may look dark, red, short and wavy.
Body Location
Scabies thrive in warm areas of the body, like in folds of skin or around waistbands. This makes locations such as the genitals, navel and breasts common areas for the itching and rash. Other locations frequented by scabies are the wrist, elbow, palms of the hands, soles of the feet and between the fingers.
Bacterial Infection
After intense itching, the skin may have areas with open wounds or sores. These sores are candidates for a bacterial infection in the skin. After a bacterial infection occurs, both the infection and the scabies infestation require medical treatment. Possible symptoms of a bacterial skin infection include pus coming from the wound, redness and swelling.
