Scabies is a skin condition typically caused by a tiny mite called Sarcoptes scabiei that burrows into your skin. This results in intense itching on the area where the mite has tunneled. Your urge to scratch becomes stronger, especially at night. It is essential to avoid constant scratching, as that could lead to serious skin infections. If left untreated, these infections could worsen into more severe kidney and blood infections. Keep in mind that scabies is contagious and can spread quickly through close person-to-person contact. By understanding what causes scabies, you can proactively implement measures to prevent the onset of this condition.
Causes of Scabies
The following is a brief response for your query, "what causes scabies?".
- Scabies, the highly contagious skin condition, spreads primarily through direct and extended skin-to-skin contact with someone who's affected. Quick interactions like handshakes or hugs don't usually lead to mite transmission, but if you hold hands for around 5 to 10 minutes, the risk of spreading these tiny creatures increases. Remember, this rule doesn't apply to crusted scabies. Brief contact can also lead to transmission in crusted scabies cases. Keep in mind that adults can also transmit scabies through intimate encounters, and within households, and close proximity. Your frequent contact makes it easy for scabies to spread.
- The scabies mites live on human skin for about one to two months. Interestingly, scabies can survive on objects like bed sheets, clothes, and towels for up to four days. Although it's less common, scabies can be passed through contact with infested items, especially for people dealing with crusted scabies. This indirect transmission happens more often in those who have the severe form of the condition.
- Don't worry about getting scabies from your pets. Even though animals can carry their own types of mites, these mites can't reproduce on you. Even if they get under your skin, they'll only last a couple of days before they die. Still, make sure to treat your pets for mites to avoid any potential spread among animals or humans.
- You probably won't get scabies from swimming in a pool. In most scabies cases, except for crusted scabies, you'll have about 10 to 15 mites on your body. This makes it very unlikely for a mite to come out from under wet skin. However, there's a small chance of getting scabies from sharing a towel with someone who's infested.
Conclusion
To sum up, remember that scabies spreads mainly through direct and extended skin-to-skin contact. Quick handshakes aren't a big risk, but longer contact can lead to transmission. Crusted scabies is an exception, as even a short interaction can spread it. Mites live on your skin for a while but can also survive on objects for a few days. Your pets won't give you scabies, but it's important to treat them for mites. To stop scabies from spreading, it's crucial to understand what causes scabies, how it's transmitted, and take preventive steps. Additionally, having health insurance can provide coverage for treatment costs if you need medical attention for scabies or other skin conditions.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.