Contents
What is scabies?
Scabies is a skin disease caused by a parasite belonging to the order of mites – human scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei). Most cases occur in autumn.The relationship between the occurrence of the disease and the socioeconomic conditions, sex or age of the patient has not been confirmed. It was only found that in neglected environments it spreads more easily and faster. Closed groups of people, such as schools, nursing homes, hospitals, prisons, create favorable conditions for infections. Swierzbowiec, like head lice, can be infected despite taking care of personal hygiene. The human scabies parasite is imperceptible to the naked eye. It nestles in the epidermis creating a system of channels and cavities. In them, females lay eggs, from which the larvae hatch. Swierzbowiec especially likes warm places and hidden in the folds of the skin. So it appears between the fingers, in the groin, behind the ears, around the genitals, under the breasts, on the waist line. In children, changes in the form of a papular rash appear first on the palms and soles of the feet. About 5% of the world’s population suffers from scabies.
What symptoms does scabies cause?
In places of existence, the parasites leave feces that cause a strong allergic reaction, manifested by unbearable itching of the skin. These symptoms usually occur about 3-4 weeks after infection. The itching of the skin triggers the compulsion to scratch, which causes further irritation of the skin. This need intensifies when the body is hot, e.g. after a bath, during sleep, after entering a warm room from the cold. As a result of scratching, parasites spread to healthy skin, infecting more and more surfaces.
How can you get infected with scabies?
Infection occurs through direct contact with diseased skin or objects used by the patient. You can get infected by staying in common rooms, by sleeping in the bedding of a sick person, by borrowing clothes from him. The risk group includes children who can become infected while playing together. Human scabies can survive outside the host’s body for up to 3 days.
How to treat scabies?
Scabies is often misdiagnosed because its symptoms resemble other diseases. Meanwhile, in order to prevent the spread of the disease, treatment should be started as soon as possible after infection. Severe itching of the skin, especially if it also bothers other household members, should always raise the suspicion of scabies. Then you should consult a dermatologist who will prescribe appropriate treatment. Preparations containing permethrin, benzyl benzoate, sulfur compounds have therapeutic effects. Protective liquid for the skin 100 ml. SCABIderm contains 10% benzyl benzoate. It has a protective effect. The specially selected formula of the product makes it spread well on the skin and is easily absorbed. It makes the skin pleasant to the touch and covered with a layer of protective film. Does not leave an oily layer on the skin. It soothes the itching sensation. Recommended for use by people prone to parasitic diseases, staying in large groups of people (e.g. nursing homes, prisons) or in poor hygienic and sanitary conditions. Vinegar compresses and baths with lavender oil and tea tree oil are helpful in treatment. Not only the infected person should fight scabies, but all people living with it. All clothes, bedding, towels should be washed, other things should be frozen.
How to prevent
Of course, the best form of prevention is to avoid contact with an infected person. In addition, it is worth remembering that parasites do not like cleanliness. Bedding, pajamas, and towels should be changed frequently and regularly, and always use your own personal items when traveling and staying in large groups of people. If you notice disturbing itching of the skin, you should visit a doctor.