Scabies is an infection of the skin caused by microscopic mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. Scabies is very contagious and it can be acquired through direct contact with an infected person or with contaminated objects. The condition can occur in people of all ages, although children and elderly people seem to be mostly affected by scabies. Hygiene doesn’t influence the occurrence of scabies in any certain way. The condition seems to occur in people regardless of their personal hygiene.

The first symptoms of scabies may occur right after infestation. Once they find a human host, the mites seek shelter in the less exposed areas of the body (back, chest, armpits, between the fingers, under the nails, in the genital area). The female mites burrow into the skin and lay their eggs. The larvae emerge after only a few days and climb to the surface of the skin. The first symptoms of scabies occur due to allergic reactions to the mites’ secretions, eggs and feces. The first symptoms of scabies that appear are inflammation of the skin and itch. The itch is severe and intensifies at night, perturbing the sleep of people who suffer from scabies.

Another symptom of scabies is the occurrence of burrows. They usually look like grey tracks along the surface of the skin. They can appear between the fingers, on the buttocks, armpits, on the genitals and on the ankles. This symptom of scabies can easily reveal the presence of the condition. By carefully analyzing the content of the burrows, tiny mites, eggs or feces can be spotted within.

Rash seems to be the most disturbing symptom of scabies. Scabies rashes appear on the affected portions of the skin and they can quickly spread in other areas of the body. The rash causes soreness and itch and it can remain on the skin for a long time. Even after the mite infestation has been eradicated with treatment, the rash will persist for another few weeks.

Another symptom of scabies is the formation of nodules on the skin. These nodules can be painful and they also persist for long periods of time. Nodules are a very suggestive symptom of scabies.

Blisters and pustules are symptoms of scabies common in small children. They are usually accompanied by rash and itch.

Impetigo is a less common symptom of scabies and occurs due to infection with bacteria. Due to repeated scratching, the skin becomes very irritated. Skin irritation facilitates the infection with bacteria and impetigo may usually occur. This kind of bacterial infection is difficult to treat.

Cellulitis is also a rare symptom of scabies and it can occur along with impetigo. Cellulitis is characterized through swelling and redness of the skin. Another symptom of scabies, usually occurring due to severe bacterial infections is fever.

The symptoms of scabies are various and many of them are very intense. They usually occur together and are difficult to tolerate. However, the symptoms of scabies can be overcome through the means of an appropriate treatment. Although some symptoms of scabies may persist a while after the infestation with mites has been eradicated, they will ease up in a few weeks and then they will disappear completely.