Scabies: Symptoms, Treatment, and Home Care Tips - Dermatology

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Understanding scabies is crucial for effective management and treatment. Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the skin, leading to intense itching and a rash. The symptoms typically include small, red bumps, blisters, and sores, often accompanied by severe itching, especially at night. The most common areas affected are between the fingers, wrists, elbows, armpits, waist, and genital area.

In your case, it seems that you have been using a topical treatment called "Scabicide" (likely permethrin or another similar medication) for 16 days. This is generally the recommended treatment for scabies. However, it's important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the application frequency and duration. If you are still experiencing new itchy red spots, it could be due to several reasons:
1. Residual Itching: After treatment, it is common for the itching to persist for a few weeks as the skin heals. This does not necessarily mean that the scabies mites are still present.

2. Secondary Infection: Scratching the affected areas can lead to secondary bacterial infections, which may cause new red bumps and increased itching.

3. Allergic Reaction: You could be experiencing an allergic reaction to the treatment or to something else in your environment, such as laundry detergents or fabric softeners.

4. Incomplete Treatment: If the treatment was not applied correctly or if the environment was not adequately cleaned, there is a possibility of reinfestation.

Regarding your treatment regimen, it is essential to continue using the prescribed medication as directed until you have completed the full course. If you notice no improvement or if symptoms worsen, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They may suggest a follow-up examination to ensure that the scabies has been effectively treated and to rule out other skin conditions.

As for your environmental management, it is crucial to treat all clothing, bedding, and towels that may have come into contact with the infested individual. Washing items in hot water and drying them on high heat is effective in killing the mites. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours, as the mites cannot survive without a human host for more than a few days.

In your case, since you mentioned that the mattress, pillows, and blankets were not treated, it would be wise to either wash them or consider using a mattress cover that is mite-proof. This will help prevent any potential reinfestation.

In summary, while it is understandable to feel anxious about the persistence of symptoms, it is essential to remain calm and follow the treatment plan. If you have concerns about the effectiveness of the treatment or the appearance of new symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance. They can provide reassurance, adjust your treatment if necessary, and help you manage any anxiety related to your condition.