How to Identify Symptoms of Scabies

Scabies Burrow

Symptoms of scabies are usually easily identified as rashes, bumps, and lines under the skin. These symptoms occur when the mites known as scabies burrow under the skin and lay their eggs - which then hatch, grow to adults and repeat the cycle. It can take 4-6 weeks after being exposed to the mites before symptoms begin. If you are exhibiting symptoms of scabies, but are unsure if you are infected, you can also perform a scabies ink test to be sure. However, in any case of skin rash, whether caused by symptoms of scabies or not, you should always consult a qualified medical professional for treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Washable marker
• Rubbing alcohol

Instructions

1. Look for red bumps, cysts, or pimple-like bumps on the skin. These irritations are some of the most common symptoms of scabies, and typically appear on the webbing between the fingers, the inner part of the wrist, on armpits, and on the elbows, knees, and waist.

2. Look for short, zigzag shaped lines, or S-shaped lines on the skin. These are known as burrows, and are typical symptoms of scabies. They range in color from gray to brown to red. Sores may also appear which are caused by bacterial infection.

3. Be aware of itchiness - one of the tell-tale symptoms of scabies. If the sores and rashes on the skin are intensely itchy, particularly at night, you may be infected with scabies mites. The itching is gradual, and becomes more intense as time goes by. After a few months, sleep is almost impossible due to the itching.

4. Perform a scabies ink test, if you aren't sure you are exhibiting symptoms of scabies. This no-fail test is even used by doctors to confirm the infestation of scabies. Color over a possible scabies burrow with a washable marker. Allow the ink to soak in for a few minutes, before wiping away with rubbing alcohol. If there are dark lines visible under the skin, you have scabies. These dark lines are caused by the ink filling in a scabies burrow.

Tips & Warnings

• Scabies spread through skin contact with an infected person. If you are exhibiting symptoms of scabies, everyone who is in close contact with you should also be tested.