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SCABIES Scabies - is a contagious skin disease caused by the parasite called the itch mite (Sarcoptes scabiei). This parasite burrows into the skin of the wrists; and folds of skin of the groin, breasts, or between the fingers or toes. These mites are very small, and visible only by magnification. The person infected with scabies may not be aware of the mites until several days have gone by; as it takes several days for the itching to become intense. The itching is often worse at night. At this time red bumps or elevated grayish white lines may be present on the buttocks and other areas of infestation. Later, blisters, pustules, and secondary skin infections may develop. This is what usually causes the patient to seek medical intervention. Scabies is transmitted easily from person to person by direct skin contact, and is usually transmitted during sexual intercourse. This type of infestation is not associated with unsanitary or crowded living condition, the mites can survive several days separated from the host and transmission has occurred from contaminated clothing and linen. It is not uncommon for an entire household to become infected with scabies. Pets, such as cats and dogs, may become infested, and therefore need to undergo treatment with the rest of the household. The entire household should undergo treatment at the same time. If the infestation is caught early, or is not established, treatment may be tried on one individual first. Diet and activity levels are not restricted. On the day of treatment, you will need to change all the household bed linens; extra boiling is required to rid the linens of infestation and if boiling is not possible, ironing will also help to kill the mites. You will need a prescription from your doctor for the medication, so if you suspect it, the see your doctor. The itching should improve within several days after treatment, but can linger for even several weeks. As stated above, this is not an indication of re-infestation. The itching is usually due to an allergic reaction the body experiences to the mite. If you feel that infestation is still occurring, a single re-treatment in one week may be needed. Skin irritation may also occur due to the medications used for treatment, so multiple applications are not recommended.
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