Scabies is a common skin disease caused by a microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabei. The infection of this mite causes intense itch in the skin. Due to extremely contagious nature of this infection, care should be taken to treat the infected person immediately, and also be cautious when dealing with the infected person. The infection can spread from one person to another trough skin-to-skin contact, sharing clothes, beds, towels, etc.
The most common symptom of scabies is severe itching, which usually worsens at night. Also, thin burrow marks left by the mite can be seen at the folds of skin. The intense itching of the skin may often break the skin, produce bumps and rashes, and lead to secondary infection. Although scabies can affect any person, irrespective of age or gender, people with reduced level of body immunity and elderly people are found to be more at risk.
Scabies treatment generally needs a thorough examination by a doctor and proper administration of prescribed medicines, which can be lotions, ointments, creams, and in some cases, oral medicines as well. Treatment is generally a little long, even if the symptoms may go away within a few days of administering medicines. However, to effectively kill the mites, it is needed that the medication is continued even after the symptoms cease. Also, being an extremely contagious infection, treatment may be given to all members of a family, just to eliminate chances of a relapse.
While medication by a doctor is must for effectively curing scabies, you may use a few home remedies that can be beneficial to certain extent. You can wash the skin with cold water and apply a cold compress with wet cloth to minimize itching. Applying the juice of apricot leaves are also known to ease the itch. Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves are also considered effective against scabies. You can apply crushed neem leaves on your skin or also add it to your bath water. You may also use neem oil which is sometimes available in drug stores. Another effective remedy for scabies is to use tea tree oil. Apply tea tree oil on the affected area directly regularly.
Besides following the medications and remedies, it is also important to take some steps to prevent the infection. Always clean the clothes with disinfectants and detergents so that the mites do not contract through clothes. Dry the clothes completely with high heat (by ironing) so that the mites get eliminated completely. Clean the beds, floors, and carpets regularly by vacuuming them.
answered by G M