Scabies Rash
Information on scabies rash and itchy skin caused by allergic reactions to mites.
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What is Scabies Rash?
A scabies rash is an extremely itchy and persistent rash that that is caused by an infestation of scabies mites. These tiny eight-legged creatures are extremely contagious and can be passed on from even the briefest contact with skin or clothing of an infected person. As the mites crawl about and burrow into the skin to deposit their eggs, they cause incredible itchiness and irritation to the skin which soon develops into a rash.
In the early phase of infestation, no rash is present and when it does occur it is often confused with other skin conditions such as dry skin, eczema, seborrhea, or chicken pox (especially in children). One of the characteristic symptoms of a scabies rash is that the itching is intense and tends to be worse at night, or after a hot shower.
People may also develop pimple like irritations or scaly skin as a resulting sign of the burrows and eggs in the skin. Allergies to the mite eggs and waste matter also intensify the itching and sores often develop as a result of incessant scratching.
What Causes Scabies Rash?
A scabies rash usually develops in characteristic areas such as the between fingers and toes, in the creases of wrists, knees and elbows and in areas such as the shoulder blades, breasts, buttocks and groin.
In infants and the elderly, the rash tends to be more wide spread and generalized. If you suspect a scabies rash or have any skin irritation that does not go away on its own, it is important to seek a medical opinion where an accurate diagnosis can be made.
More Information on Scabies Rash
How to treat and prevent scabies rash
- Scabies is incredibly contagious and so it is essential to treat the whole family and other people in close proximity if one person in it is diagnosed with scabies. Even those who have no symptoms need to be treated to avoid re-contamination.
- Make sure to wash and iron all bedding and clothing that may be infected.
- Spray tea tree oil on belts, shoes and other items that cannot go through the wash, but which may be infected.
- Other items that cannot be washed can also be sealed in plastic bag and left for a week or two. Mites will die if they do not have a host to feed off for over a week.
- When dealing with contagious mites such as scabies it is important to vacuum clean all carpets, rugs, mattresses, curtains and upholstery and afterwards immediately discard the vacuum bag.
- Soak in a cool bath, or use a cool face cloth to sooth irritated skin.
- Do not scratch. Scratching may break the skin and cause sores and infection. Rather, rub the area with a wet face cloth, as will also help to remove some of the mites.
