Welcome to White Pebble Dermatology practice in Columbia, Maryland and Highland, Maryland! Our women-owned team of dermatology specialists is dedicated to helping our patients achieve healthy, clear skin. In this section, we will discuss scabies, a common skin condition caused by a tiny mite that burrows into the skin and causes intense itching and skin irritation.
What are Scabies?
Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. The mite burrows into the skin and lays eggs, which leads to an itchy, red rash. Scabies is spread through close physical contact with an infected person or by sharing clothing, bedding, or towels. The condition is most common in crowded environments such as nursing homes, schools, and prisons.
Symptoms of Scabies
The most common symptom of scabies is intense itching, especially at night. The itching is caused by the mite burrowing into the skin and laying eggs. Other symptoms of scabies include a red rash, small bumps or blisters, and scales or crusts on the skin. The rash is typically found in areas such as between fingers, on the wrists, elbows, armpits, waist, genital area, and buttocks.
Treatment Options for Scabies
Scabies can be effectively treated with prescription medications. These medications kill the mites and their eggs, and usually include topical creams or lotions such as permethrin, crotamiton, or sulfur. In some cases, oral medications may also be prescribed. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your dermatology specialist carefully, as treatment must be applied to the entire body and repeated after a certain period to ensure complete eradication of the mites.
Preventing Scabies
Scabies can be prevented by avoiding close contact with infected individuals and not sharing personal items such as clothing, towels, and bedding. It is also important to keep living spaces clean and regularly wash clothing and bedding.
If you suspect that you or a family member has scabies, it is important to seek medical attention from a dermatology specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the spread of scabies and alleviate symptoms. Our team of dermatology specialists is experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of scabies and will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.
Scabies treatment near me in Columbia, Maryland, and Highland, Maryland
Ready to Take the First Step? If you're struggling with Scabies and are ready to take the first step toward clearer, healthier skin, we invite you to call/text to schedule a consultation with one of our dermatology specialists. As a woman-owned business, we are proud to offer exceptional care and support to women and men of all ages. We look forward to helping you achieve your skincare goals and feel confident in your own skin!