Scabies
Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by tiny burrowing mites that trigger intense itching and a pimple-like rash. It spreads easily through close physical contact and requires medical treatment to eliminate the mites.
Overview
Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by tiny burrowing mites that trigger intense itching and a pimple-like rash. It spreads easily through close physical contact and requires medical treatment to eliminate the mites.
Symptoms
Click any symptom to analyzeCauses
- •Sarcoptes scabiei (infestation of microscopic mites)
- •Skin-to-skin contact with an infested person
- •Sharing infested bedding, clothing, or towels
Risk factors
- •Living in crowded conditions (dorms, nursing homes)
- •Close physical contact with an infected person
- •Sharing personal items like towels or linens
- •Weakened immune system
How it progresses
3 stages- OnsetSymptoms appear, often triggered by a known cause.Often missed
- Active phaseSymptoms peak; self-care or short treatment usually helps.
- ResolutionSymptoms ease over days to weeks with proper care.
How it's diagnosed
- •Physical examination of the skin
- •Skin scraping to look for mites under a microscope
- •History of symptoms in close contacts
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •Prescription topical creams (permethrin)
- •Oral antiparasitic medications (ivermectin)
- •Antihistamines to manage itching
- •Antibiotics if a secondary skin infection develops
- •Washing all bedding and clothing in hot water (140°F/60°C)
- •Drying items on high heat for at least 20 minutes
- •Vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture
- •Storing non-washable items in sealed plastic bags for 72 hours
Complications
- •Skin infection
- •Scarring
- •Chronic itch
- •Recurrence of scabies
Prevention
- •Use sunscreen daily
- •Moisturize regularly
- •Avoid known irritants
When to seek help
- •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
- •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- •New or worsening symptoms appear
- •Concerning changes related to scabies
- Signs of skin infection (pus, spreading redness, heat)
- Fever associated with skin sores
- Widespread crusting of the skin (crusted scabies)
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Scabies cause headaches?
- ›Is Scabies reversible?
- ›How quickly does Scabies progress?
- ›Is Scabies hereditary?
- ›Can Scabies be prevented?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Scabies include Sarcoptes scabiei (infestation of microscopic mites), Skin-to-skin contact with an infested person, Sharing infested bedding, clothing, or towels.
Scabies is generally moderate, but severity can vary. Seek care if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Some milder cases may improve with rest and self-care. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.
Sources
Information based on general medical references such as:
Last reviewed: May 2026