Scabies is a highly contagious disease caused by tiny mites. These eight-legged mites cause itching and redness. They are extremely small, but it is possible to see them with a microscope.
Scabies infestations are fairly common, and can affect anyone. Scabies is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Although it is most commonly transmitted through sexual contact, other skin-to-skin transmission modes are possible. Your pets can suffer from a mite infestation, but it is not the same type that causes scabies in humans.
The early signs of scabies can easily be mistaken for other conditions such as mosquito bites or acne. One of the distinguishing features is the raised lines that occur when female mites burrow into the skin and lay eggs. Although an infestation can occur anywhere on the body, some of the more common locations are between the fingers, on the genitals, behind the wrist, elbows, and knees, as well as around the waist and navel. In young children, the rash may be present on the face, head, neck, and palms.
1. Skin Bumps
Most people with scabies will develop skin bumps at some point. You might see small red dots develop on your skin that look very similar to pimples or other bug bites. They might also look like blisters, nodules, or welts. Most of the time, they will be tiny, pink bumps that have clear fluid at the top. Some people with scabies will develop scabs around the bumps from itching them. The bumps can also become crusted when the infestation is too severe. The hands, feet, and wrist are some of the most common places for the bumps to develop. However, they can really develop anywhere on the body, especially in children.
2. Skin Redness
One of the most common signs is skin redness. There is a rash that will develop around the bumps in your skin. The rash can become scaly and patchy, and begin to resemble eczema. Those with a severe form of the infestation, known as crusted scabies, will develop a more crusty, noticeable rash due to the number of mites burrowed in their skin. The crusted rash is extremely thick, might crumble when you touch it, and can be gray or red in color. Crusted scabies is more likely to develop in people who have a weakened immune system because their bodies cannot fight off the infestation.
3. Itching
Itching is the most common symptom of scabies. The itchy feeling is extremely intense, and can get much worse at night. For some people, it is so bad that it keeps them awake at night. Excessive scratching can lead to an infection because bacteria can get in through the breaks in the skin. Bacteria in the skin can exasperate the symptoms, and hinder the healing process. If the infection enters the blood, it can also lead to sepsis which can be a life-threatening condition. If the itchy feeling is unbearable, you should see a doctor to prescribe an antihistamine to relieve the symptoms.
4. Skin Burrows
Skin burrows are an identifying feature of scabies. The presence of skin burrows is difficult to see because they are so small, but they can help you distinguish scabies from other rashes. A magnifying glass might help you see the line. The burrows are track like lines that occur because the mites are tunneling just underneath the skin. The scaly burrow is usually 3-10 mm long. Sometimes the mite is visible as a black speck at one end of the burrow. They are typically gray, white, or skin-colored. After the mite creates the burrow, they may lay up to 25 eggs underneath the skin.
5. Anxiety
Anxiety is commonly associated with scabies for several reasons. Many people are terrified of bugs, and the thought of having them tunneling under their skin further exasperates those fears. It is important to stay calm if you suspect you have been exposed to an infestation, and see a doctor as soon as possible. Anxiety can make the itchy feeling worse because you might think there are more mites than there are or that scratching is the only thing you can do to help. You should tell your doctor if you are experiencing anxiety in addition to the other common symptoms.
6. Fever
If you are suffering from these symptoms and you have a fever, it is possible you have developed a secondary infection. Most people with scabies will not develop a fever. It is important to avoid excessive scratching to prevent bacteria from entering the skin and causing an infection and fever. Two of the most common secondary infections associated with scabies are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. If you have either of these infections, you might develop skin sores and abscesses in addition to the heightened body temperature. Life threatening infections are more common in tropical areas where patients do not have access to medical resources.
7. Irritable
Scabies patients are often irritable for several reasons. The itchy feeling is extremely uncomfortable, and many people with scabies are also experiencing anxiety. Additionally, the symptoms worsen at night making it difficult for a lot of people to sleep. Lack of sleep can lead to feelings of irritability and daytime fatigue. Infants are especially prone to feelings of irritability, and might cry often. Additionally, infants with an infestation are more likely to have sleeping and eating difficulties. Antihistamine medication can help alleviate the need to scratch which can lead to a better night’s sleep and less irritability and fatigue during the day.
