Scabies Overview
Scabies is an infestation of the skin with a microscopic mite called Sarcoptes scabei. Although scabies effects people of all classes and races, it spreads much more quickly in areas that are overcrowded. Examples of areas such as this include hospitals, nursing homes and day-cares. Scabies is spread through direct contact with someone who is already carrying the mites. Because of the contact involved, scabies are very easily spread from one person to another during sexual intercourse. In addition to skin-to-skin transmission, scabies can also be spread by items such as towels, bedding and clothing.
There are several distinct symptoms that accompany scabies infestation. If you are unlucky enough to contract a case of scabies, you will notice many pimple-like irritations. You may also notice a rash or burrows on the skin. The most common places for these irritations to surface are the knee, wrist, penis, elbow, shoulder blades and breast. These irritations will cause your skin to become especially itchy. Most patients report that they become the most irritated at night. Although you should avoid scratching at all costs, many people are unable to and end up causing sores on the body.
One interesting aspect of scabies is the life expectancy of the mites that are responsible for this less than pleasant condition. When they are away from the human body, mites will only live two to three days. However, when they are on a human body, they can live for up to a month. On average, female mites have a longer average life span than male mites. |
