scabies treatment - #8989

Based on your description, it sounds like you have a significant skin condition that requires further evaluation. While it's understandable to suspect scabies given your symptoms—the intense itching, red bumps, and possible burrow marks—it’s important to have a healthcare provider perform an examination for an accurate diagnosis. Scabies can present similarly to other skin conditions, and only a professional can determine the exact cause. Before you can receive a proper diagnosis, here are specific steps you can take to manage your symptoms: 1. **Avoid Scratching**: Try to avoid scratching the affected areas as this might lead to skin infections. Keeping your nails short can help reduce damage if you do have the urge to scratch. 2. **Moisturizing**: Continue using moisturizers that are safe for sensitive skin. Apply it multiple times a day, especially after bathing. This may help alleviate some dry skin symptoms. 3. **Topical Treatments**: If you believe scabies is the cause, you can discuss with your doctor the use of topical treatments like permethrin or crotamiton. These creams typically need to be applied all over the body, including areas that may not have visible lesions, and should be left on for the duration recommended by the physician. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider carefully. 4. **Washing Clothes and Bedding**: You are doing well by washing your clothing and bedding in hot water. Make sure to do this regularly, as this practice helps eliminate any potential mites and prevents spread. 5. **Treating Household Members**: If scabies is confirmed or strongly suspected, it's generally recommended that all close contacts be treated, even if they are asymptomatic, to reduce the risk of transmission. 6. **Managing Symptoms and Timing**: After starting treatment, it's common for itching to persist for a short period, even after the mites are killed, due to residual irritation or an allergic reaction to the mites. However, if you notice no improvement in a week after starting treatment, return to your doctor. 7. **Potential Side Effects**: Some irritation may occur with treatments like permethrin, but if there’s excessive burning, redness, or signs of an allergic reaction, you should contact your healthcare provider to assess the need for a different treatment. 8. **Follow-Up**: If symptoms do not significantly improve within one week, or if they worsen, schedule a follow-up with your doctor. It is important to get reassessed rather than trying another treatment on your own without guidance. Remember, while online information can be helpful, self-diagnosing can lead to misunderstandings. An in-person evaluation will ensure you receive the appropriate care. If at any point your symptoms become severe, such as developing fever or significant discomfort, seek immediate medical attention.