Scabies is a tiny mite that burrows into the top layer of your skin. The bite isn’t dangerous, but it makes you itch like crazy. You usually catch it from close skin‑to‑skin contact – think sleeping next to someone who’s infected or sharing clothes.
The first clue is a rash that shows up 2–6 weeks after exposure. Look for tiny bumps and thin, grayish lines (called burrows) between fingers, on wrists, elbows, waistline, or around the belly button. The itch gets worse at night, so you might find yourself scratching in bed.
If you’ve been living with someone who has scabies, check their whole body – the mites love warm, moist spots. Kids often get it on the hands and feet, while adults see it on the torso or genital area.
The go‑to treatment is a prescription cream called permethrin 5%. Apply it all over your body from neck down, leave it on for eight hours (usually overnight), then wash off. One or two applications usually clear the mites.
If you can’t use permethrin, a single dose of oral ivermectin works well for many adults. It’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions exactly – missing a dose can let some mites survive.
After treatment, wash all clothing, towels, and bed sheets in hot water (at least 50 °C) and dry them on high heat. Anything that can’t be washed should stay sealed in a plastic bag for at least a week.
Even if the itch sticks around for a few weeks, it’s usually just a reaction to dead mites. Over‑the‑counter antihistamines or soothing creams can help you get through that phase.
When to see a doctor? If the rash spreads quickly, you develop blisters, or you have a weakened immune system, get medical advice fast. Also, kids under two and older adults may need extra care.
Bottom line: spot the burrows early, use the right medication, clean your surroundings, and avoid close contact until treatment finishes. That’s how you kick scabies out of your life for good.
