Scabies is a skin condition caused by tiny, eight-legged mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. The danger in the infestation of scabies is that you can spread the mites to others without even knowing you have been infected because symptoms don't show up immediately. Urgent treatment after symptoms are identified is vital to prevent the spread of scabies to others. After becoming infected by the scabies mite, it can take two to six weeks to see any signs or symptoms of the condition. If you have had scabies before, the onset of symptoms is much sooner, typically between one and four days.
Skin Tracks
One of the visual symptoms of scabies is "tracks" that appear on the skin. These tracks are made up of blisters and bumps caused by the bites and burrows from the mites. The tracks are most often found in areas that contain folds of skin or creases: between fingers, in the armpits, around the waist, on the insides of wrists or elbows, the soles of the feet, on or underneath the breasts, in the male genital area, buttocks, behind the knees or the shoulder blades. Your doctor will generally prescribe permethrin or crotamiton to help kill the mites that caused scabies. These medications come in the form of creams that must be applied to the entire body and left on for approximately eight hours. In severe cases, multiple applications may be required to completely eliminate the mites.
Itching
One of the key symptoms of scabies is itching. Itching occurs when the mites that cause the condition burrow into the skin. It is similar to the itching associated with chicken pox or measles and can be most severe at night. Suppressing the urge to scratch is important to prompt healing and prevent the spread of the mites. Applying cold compresses or a topical cream can help relieve itching. Even after the mites have been eliminated, it is common to experience itching for several weeks thereafter.
Sores
Severe cases of scabies can include sores that develop on the skin. Development of sores can lead to infections if bacteria or dirt is being transmitted from your hands or your immediate environment. Staphylococcus aureus or beta-hemolytic streptococci are two infections that have been associated with the infection of scabies sores.
