Scabies Treatment

Scabies is a common condition caused by microscopic human itch mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. The mites lay eggs in the upper layer of the skin, which triggers an allergic reaction that leads to intense itch, red bumps, and a distinctive scabies rash. This parasitic infection is spread primarily through skin-on-skin contact with an infected person, but it can also be transmitted via contaminated towels, clothing, or bedding. If left untreated, a scabies infestation can continue to spread and lead to secondary skin infections.

In rare cases, scabies can develop into a more severe form known as Norwegian (crusted) scabies, which results in thick crusts of skin teeming with mites. This form is most common in people with weakened immune systems and requires aggressive treatment with both topical and oral antiparasitic medications.

Preventing scabies infestations starts with practicing good hygiene and avoiding known sources of transmission. To reduce your risk, follow these prevention tips:

• Avoid skin-on-skin contact with anyone showing scabies symptoms.
• Do not share towels, clothing, or bedding with an infected person.
• Wash all clothes, linens, and towels used by someone with scabies in hot water and dry on high heat.
• Clean surfaces and vacuum frequently in shared spaces.

If you’ve come into contact with an infected person, you may need prescription medication even if you don’t have symptoms, to avoid spreading the parasitic infection.

Recognizing the symptoms of scabies early is essential for timely treatment and preventing spread. Infected skin often appears irritated and inflamed, with thin, grayish or reddish burrow lines, small blisters, and scattered red bumps. These marks are caused by the scabies mites tunneling just beneath the skin's surface.

Common signs include:

• Extreme itching, often worsening at night
• Skin rashes that most commonly appear in the armpits, breasts, buttocks, and between the fingers and toes.
• Skin ulcers or sores from excessive scratching
• Mild swelling or signs of skin infection in the most severe or untreated cases

People infected with scabies typically don't develop symptoms until 4-6 weeks after initial exposure if they've never had scabies before. For people who have previously had scabies, symptoms may appear much sooner (1-4 days).

Scabies can affect people of all ages, genders, and hygiene levels—it is not a result of being unclean. Outbreaks are especially common in close-contact settings such as nursing homes, college dormitories, childcare centers, households, and other group living environments. Because the mites are highly contagious, even brief contact with an infected person can lead you to contract scabies. 

Effective scabies treatment typically involves topical and oral antiparasitic medication. The most commonly used topical option is permethrin cream, which should be applied to the entire body from the neck down. In more severe cases or if topical options are not effective, oral ivermectin may be prescribed. These scabicides kill the mites and their eggs.  

Always follow your provider’s instructions to fully treat your scabies symptoms and prevent reinfestation.

Getting fast, private scabies treatment online through 24hrdoc is simple and affordable (just $39.99). There’s no need for an in-person exam or clinic visit—just follow these easy steps:

1. Complete a secure symptom questionnaire describing your condition, including signs like an itchy rash.
2. Chat with a licensed provider—our experienced virtual doctors for scabies will review your case and provide a diagnosis.
3. If appropriate, you’ll receive prescription medication such as permethrin or ivermectin cream, which will be sent directly to your local pharmacy.

Get rid of itchy skin fast—your prescription will be available in as little as 45 minutes. Same-day care. No appointments. Expert support from the comfort of your home.