Scabies is a skin condition that goes beyond the average itch and redness… In fact, it doesn’t start off as a rash, the rash results from an infestation of mites. Yes, mites…you read that right!
1. Scabies isn’t “just a rash”, it’s an infestation!
Scabies is a rash or condition caused by mites known as Sarcoptes. Once contracted, these tiny mites that are the size of a needle tip, lay their eggs under the skin via little tunnels, which over time lead to full infestations.
Common symptoms of scabies are:
- Severe itching in areas of the skin that fold including, the wrist, neck, behind the knees and elbows, the armpits, the intergluteal cleft, the groin, behind the ears, etc…
- Worsened itching at night
- Pimple-like rash
- Tiny skin-coloured lines in the skin that result from the mites forming tunnels
2. Scabies are contagious
Unlike a regular rash, since scabies rash is an infestation of mites, it is highly contagious and can easily spread from person to person.
Areas where individuals are close to one another like in schools, daycares, hospitals, the city bus, prison, or even sports teams, are great areas for these mites to transfer from person to person.
If someone in your immediate family is suffering from scabies rash, your healthcare provider will typically recommend treatment to the entire family to ensure the infestation is stopped in its tracks!
3. Treatment for Scabies rash is typically effective!
Similar to lice, there are a variety of things that can be done to stop scabies from infesting your friends and family. For instance, sealing clothing and stuffed animals in bags is a great way to starve the mites. Other things like washing your clothes, and deep cleaning couch cushions are also great ideas!
From a medical treatment standpoint, most skin care physicians will prescribe what is known as Scabicide Lotion which aims to kill scabies and their eggs. This lotion is recommended to be used from head to toe (yes, face and feet included) for adults, and from head to toe (including scalp) for children.
After treatment, you can expect some itching for the first couple of weeks, however, if the itching continues over 4 weeks, it’s important to contact your skin care physician for a re-prescription or a new treatment plan.
Where to seek Scabies treatment
If you are dealing with a rash that you suspect to be scabies, we urge you to contact skin care physician Dr. Shehla Ebrahim ASAP to avoid spreading the infestation to others. With her office in Vancouver, BC, she offers both virtual and in-person consultations.
To book a virtual appointment CLICK HERE.
Or call 236-878-7002 to be seen in person.