Lucas Beaumont
Scabies is generally considered a common malady and companies have produced a number of lotion treatments that can be prescribed by a doctor or purchased over the counter. Individuals should always consult with a doctor for more serious cases of scabies and must follow his or her directions closely.
When dealing with scabies, it is crucial to treat everyone who has been in contact with an infected individual or who has been exposed, whether the others show infection symptoms or not. If this isn’t done carefully, the treatment of the original individual might have little or no long-term effect at all. Others may get scabies and not be aware of it for several weeks.
Scabies is caused by a small animal, a mite that is so tiny it is almost invisible to the naked eye. The might digs into the individual’s skin, starting an infection process that can worsen over a month’s time (or more). The first symptom will usually be significant itching. The mite usually transfers from one individual to another by direct contact. As mentioned earlier, it is essential that everyone who has had close contact with an infected individual be treated.
In addition to seeing a dermatologist (skin specialist) people with scabies should treat every inch of the skin, from head to foot. Clothing should be thoroughly washed and dried. Commercial medications as prescribed by a doctor should be applied and left on for up to two days. A hot both will remove any medication that would otherwise be effective. Ask about ointments with sulphur or medicated soap that is designed specifically for scabies infections.
While many people will pay close attention to personal cleanliness and will apply the necessary medication to treat scabies, they may not give particular attention to clothing or to the furniture and carpets in the individual’s home. This must not be left out of the treatment process, according to experts. Research has shown that the mites causing scabies are attracted to scents on clothing and on the person, so items should be cleansed of any of those scents and aromas.
Here are some effective steps in the scabies-treatment process:
1) Specific creams with permethrin;
2) Lotions with an ingredient called lindane;
3) Sulphur ointments as mentioned earlier
4) Medications to help reduce the itching
5) Wash the clothing and bedding
6) Clean and inspect the furniture
7) Don’t share towels and other personal items
In addition to all of these steps that can be taken on a personal basis, the individual should consult a dermatologist. This expert may be able to prescribe some specific treatments for individual situations. If items must be discarded, seal them in a plastic bag and dispose of them carefully.
There are some conditions and situations that are closely associated with scabies as well, including additional infections and sores that come from excessive scratching. If the individual wears necklaces and bracelets, it is necessary to pay particular attention to those areas, since mites are attracted to warm, moist locations.
