Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by a mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. The most common symptom of scabies is intense itching, which usually worsens at night. Other signs and symptoms may include:
- Small, raised, and sometimes curved tracks or blisters on the skin. These may appear as a rash or small pimples and can occur anywhere on the body, including between the fingers, on the wrists, elbows, genitals, buttocks, and in the skin folds.
- The presence of burrows or tunnels under the skin made by the mites.
- Intense itching that can become worse at night.
- A feeling of something crawling on the skin.
- Skin irritation and redness.
If you suspect you may have scabies, it is important to see a healthcare provider or dermatologist. They can diagnose scabies by examining your skin and taking a sample of the affected skin to look for the mites or their eggs under a microscope. Scabies can be treated with prescription creams or lotions, so it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have it.
