What Does a Scabies Rash Look Like?
One of the most common and noticeable symptoms is itching, which can be severe and often worsens at night. In addition, scabies causes a rash that looks like tiny tunnels made up of bumps or blisters. Most often, scabies rashes develop in skin folds. Common places to get the rash include:
- Spaces between fingers and toes
- Armpits
- Waist area
- Insides of the wrists and elbows
- Soles of the feet
- Chest, particularly around nipples
- Around belly button
- In the groin and around the genitals
- Buttocks
Children are more likely to develop it on the fingers, scalp, neck, face, palms, and soles of their feet. Kids may develop brown-red nodules in areas of an active infection, and these may last for weeks or even months after the infection is gone. People with compromised immune systems, older adults, and young children may develop a severe form of scabies called crusted or Norwegian scabies. In these people, the rash is usually widespread and crusted over. The crusting may become so severe that the rash is no longer visible underneath. Symptoms of scabies may begin up to six weeks after you contract the mites. It can spread to other areas of the body once you have an active infection.
How Is a Scabies Rash Treated?
Although scabies is uncomfortable and distressing, it is treatable. The first step is to see a doctor for an official diagnosis. Often, healthcare professionals can diagnose scabies simply by looking at the rash. However, they may also use a brush to collect a sample of skin and then examine it under a microscope to look for the mites. Because scabies often spreads within households, your healthcare provider may recommend that everyone you live with undergo treatment, even if they’re not showing signs of infection. The most common treatments for this skin disease include:
Permethrin
Permethrin is a skin cream that kills adult mites, larvae, and eggs. Normally, the cream is applied to the affected area and left in place for eight to 14 hours. Then, it is washed off. Often, doctors prescribe permethrin as the first treatment for infections because it is safe for children 2 months of age and older as well as for adults and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Sulfur Cream
Younger infants and people who can’t use permethrin may benefit from a sulfur-based cream that kills mites and their eggs. Normally, sulfur cream is applied before bed and washed off in the morning, and used for around five to seven days.
Ivermectin
Ivermectin is an oral medication that is effective for treating scabies. Doctors typically prescribe it for people who have compromised immune systems or those who weren’t able to clear up their infections by applying creams or lotions. The medication isn’t suitable for children who weigh less than 33 pounds or for people who are pregnant or nursing.
