Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. It is common all over the world and can affect anyone. Scabies spreads quickly in crowded conditions where there is frequent skin-to-skin contact between people. Hospitals, child-care centers and nursing homes are examples. Scabies can easily infect sex partners and other household members. Sharing clothes, towels and bedding can also spread scabies. You cannot get scabies from a pet. Pets get a different mite infection called mange.
Symptoms are:
Ohio State dermatologists diagnose scabies by looking at the skin rash and finding burrows in the skin.
Several lotions are available to treat scabies. The infected person's clothes, bedding and towels should be washed in hot water and dried in a hot dryer. Treatment is also recommended for household members and sexual partners.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Bath bombs – yay or nay? A dermatologist weighs in
Bath bombs seem to be all the rage, especially among tweens and teens. But from a dermatology perspective, the jury is in and we give them a thumbs down.
Is a beard bad for your health?
Despite reports to the contrary, growing and maintaining a beard is perfectly safe with consistent care. An expert from The Ohio State University shares tips to help keep your beard healthy.
How to avoid bed bugs while traveling
With global travel, it’s easy for bed bugs to hitch a ride on a suitcase, nestle in Uber car seats and invade hotels and vacation rentals. Here's how to avoid them.
Get tips from Ohio State experts right to your inbox.
We'll be in touch every so often with health tips, patient stories, important resources and other information you need to keep you and your family healthy. Welcome to our online community here at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center!
