Scabies treatment in Barcelona

Service Description

Scabies is an intensely itchy skin rash caused by microscopic mites, Sarcoptes scabiei, that burrow into the skin. The condition spreads easily through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, making prompt treatment of infected individuals and all close contacts essential to prevent outbreaks. Treatment involves medicated creams or oral medications that kill the mites and their eggs. While effective, the intense itching can persist for weeks after successful treatment, and to prevent reinfection and spread, all clothing, bedding, and towels should be washed in hot water. Cause: Scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, a tiny parasite that burrows into the upper layers of the skin to live and lay eggs. Symptoms: Intense itching: This is the most common and debilitating symptom, often worse at night and can disrupt sleep. Rash: A pimple-like rash or small red bumps may appear on the skin. Skin lines: In some cases, tiny grayish or skin-colored lines may be visible on the skin, indicating the burrows of the mites. Transmission: Direct skin-to-skin contact: This is the primary mode of transmission, making close relationships and living in crowded conditions high-risk scenarios. Indirect contact: Less commonly, infection can occur from sharing contaminated items like clothing or bedding, though this is rare for common scabies. Treatment and Prevention: Medicated treatments: Doctors typically prescribe medicated creams or lotions (like permethrin) or oral medications (like ivermectin) to kill the mites and their eggs. Treating all contacts: Because scabies is so contagious, healthcare providers recommend treating everyone in the household and close contacts simultaneously, even if they don't have symptoms. Environmental cleaning: Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water and dry them on a hot cycle to kill any remaining mites. Persistent itching: Be aware that the itching can continue for several weeks after the mites are gone, as this is a normal allergic reaction to the mites and their waste products. When to see a doctor: Consult a healthcare provider if you experience intense itching, a new rash, or suspect you may have scabies.