What is scabies?
Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by a tiny burrowing mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. The presence of the mite leads to intense itching in the area of its burrows. The urge to scratch may be especially strong at night. Scabies is contagious and can spread quickly through close physical contact in a family, child care group, school class, nursing home or prison. Because of the contagious nature of scabies, doctors often recommend treatment for entire families or contact groups.
What are the symptoms of scabies?
- Intense itching, especially at night.
- A pimple-like rash.
- Scales or blisters.
- Sores caused by scratching.
it can take four to six weeks for symptoms to appear.
Where Do Scabies Mites Live?
Scabies mites can live anywhere on the body, but some of their favorite spots include:
- Between the fingers.
- The folds of the wrist, elbow, or knee.
- Around the waistline and navel.
- On the breasts or genitals.
- The head, neck, face, palms, and soles in very young children.
How is scabies diagnosed?
if you have signs and symptoms that may indicate scabies your doctor examines your skin, take a scraping from that area to examine under a microscope to determine the presence of mites or their eggs.
Many skin conditions, such as dermatitis or eczema, are associated with itching and small bumps on the skin.
What is the treatment of scabies?
Scabies will not go away on its own. It can only be cured with prescription medications that kill the mites.
You usually apply the medication over all your body, from your neck down, and leave the medication on for at least eight hours. A second treatment is needed if new burrows and rash appear.
Things you can do during treatment to stop scabies spreading
Do
- wash all bedding and clothing and puffy toys in the house at 50◦C or higher on the first day of treatment.
- put clothing that can't be washed in a sealed bag for 3 days until the mites die.
- stop babies and children sucking treatment from their hands by putting socks or mittens on them.
Don't
- have close physical contact until you've completed the full course of treatment.
- share bedding, clothing or towels with someone with scabies.
How Soon Will Scabies Go Away?
Scabies medications can kill the mites and eggs quickly, and patients can usually return to school or work 24 hours after starting treatment. However, the itch may persist for a few weeks.
Does my Insurance Policy covers scabies treatment?
Yes. According to CCHI unified Policy terms and conditions, health insurance policies in Saudi Arabia cover the treatment of scabies.
Please Click Here to access the Unified CCHI Policy Wordings.