How To Successfully Identify And Treat Scabies
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Scabies can be described as a parasitic infestation of the skin. People with scabies will suffer intense itching, can have an allergic reaction that results in a rash, and are prone to secondary infections of the skin. The scabies mite, or Sarcoptes Scabiei is highly contagious, and can be very difficult to diagnose in some individuals.
A scabies infestation is most often found in crevices in the skin. In finger webbing, between the toes, on elbows and around the waist are common sites. Tracks in the skin with an S shape can be an indication that scabies is present, and should be seen by a doctor as soon as they are noticed. Initial symptoms may take over a month from time of exposure to show up.
Female scabies mites lay their eggs under the skin of their host. They must burrow in so they are able to deposit the eggs. Eggs hatch in a few days, and eventually morph into the nymphs that will be the adult mites. They cannot survive for more than a couple days off the skin.
Skin scrapings from affected areas are how a diagnosis is achieved. The scrapings are viewed under a microscope for evidence of mites and eggs. Repeated scrapings can be required in order to make a positive diagnosis of an infection. Scraped areas can become infected if not treated with antibiotics, and can be aggravated by scratching the area.
Those that get an allergic reaction may find itching even worse. The mite feces under the skin is the underlying cause of the reaction, not the mites or their eggs.
Treatment can be achieved by the application of a lotion or ointment specifically for scabies. Oral methods can work as well. Quite often, repeat treatments can be necessary to completely rid the host of this pest. If a case is particularly widespread, treatment can take a long time. Misdiagnosis can also cause a prolonged recovery.
This highly contagious parasite can cause the host misery and discomfort. To avoid re-infestation, all items, clothing, bedding and furniture that an infested person may have come in contact with must be washed or treated. Very hot water and a high heat setting on the dryer works for washables. Other items may need to be sprayed with a pesticide that contains permethrin that will kill the mites.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
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