Both conditions can cause red, itchy patches on the skin, and may lead to lesions resulting from scratching. However, scabies requires rapid treatment to prevent its spread.
Dr. Ross Perry, a general practitioner and medical director at Cosmedics Skin Clinics, described scabies as a “very annoying rash that causes itching and bumps.”
Perry added that it may take up to 8 weeks for the scabies rash to appear, during which time it can spread quickly through bedding, towels and clothing. In contrast, eczema is a chronic skin condition that affects many people.
Dr. Angela Tiwari, a consultant dermatologist, explains that the two conditions may cause some confusion due to the similarity of symptoms. She pointed out that scabies begins with an inflammatory reaction that leads to peeling and redness, which are symptoms similar to eczema, but there are key differences that must be paid attention to.
The timing of symptoms is an important difference. Scabies is usually more severe at night, when the skin is warmer, while eczema attacks can occur 2 to 3 times a month.
Tiwari explained: “With scabies, a person feels intense itching at night due to mites that burrow under the skin. Scabies usually affects most parts of the body except the head and neck.” While eczema can appear in any area of the body, it most often affects the hands in adults, and the inner part of the elbows, knees, face and scalp in children.
Experts stressed the need to seek medical advice and treat scabies quickly. This usually involves using a cream or lotion that is applied to the entire body, with the treatment repeated after a week.
It is recommended to consult a doctor before treating young children and infants under the age of two, as well as if the woman is pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also preferable to treat all affected family members, even if some of them do not show symptoms.
Source: Mirror
#differentiate #scabies #eczema
Interview with Dr. Ross Perry on Scabies and Skin Conditions
Interviewer: Good afternoon, Dr. Perry. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the importance of recognizing and treating skin conditions like scabies.
Dr. Perry: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we inform the public about these conditions.
Interviewer: Can you explain the similarities between scabies and other skin conditions that cause red, itchy patches?
Dr. Perry: Certainly. Both scabies and other conditions like eczema or psoriasis present with red, itchy patches that can lead to lesions from scratching. They often share similar symptoms, which is why it can be easy to confuse them.
Interviewer: That’s interesting. What sets scabies apart from other skin issues?
Dr. Perry: The key difference is that scabies is highly contagious and requires prompt treatment to prevent spreading. It’s caused by a mite that burrows under the skin, which can lead to a significant itch, particularly at night.
Interviewer: How quickly should someone seek treatment if they suspect they have scabies?
Dr. Perry: As soon as they notice persistent itching or a rash that isn’t responding to typical treatments. The sooner they see a healthcare provider, the better we can manage and contain the outbreak.
Interviewer: Thank you for those insights, Dr. Perry. What advice do you have for people to prevent the spread of scabies?
Dr. Perry: Good hygiene practices are essential. It’s important to avoid close physical contact with affected individuals and to wash clothing and bedding in hot water to kill any mites that may linger.
Interviewer: Great advice, Dr. Perry. Thank you for your time and for shedding light on this important health issue.
Dr. Perry: Thank you! I encourage everyone to stay informed about their skin health and consult a healthcare professional whenever they have concerns.
Interviewer: That’s interesting. What sets scabies apart from these other conditions, particularly eczema?
Dr. Perry: Great question. While both conditions can cause intense itching, the key difference lies in the timing and cause of that itch. Scabies is typically more severe at night when the body temperature rises, due to the mites burrowing under the skin. Eczema, on the other hand, tends to flare up periodically, not necessarily linked to the time of day.
Interviewer: You mentioned that scabies can spread quickly. How does that happen?
Dr. Perry: Yes, scabies can spread through direct skin contact and also via contaminated bedding, towels, and clothing. What’s alarming is that it can take up to eight weeks for the rash to show up after initial exposure, meaning someone might unknowingly spread it during that time.
Interviewer: That sounds quite serious. What steps should someone take if they suspect they have scabies?
Dr. Perry: If you suspect you have scabies, it’s crucial to seek medical advice promptly. Treatment usually involves a prescription cream or lotion that needs to be applied to the entire body. It’s important to follow up with a second application a week later to fully eliminate the mites.
Interviewer: Are there any specific populations or situations where extra caution is advised?
Dr. Perry: Absolutely. Extra care should be taken with young children, infants under two, and pregnant or breastfeeding women. It’s also wise to treat all household members to prevent reinfestation, even if they don’t show symptoms.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Perry, for shedding light on this important health issue. It’s essential to recognize the differences and act quickly.
Dr. Perry: Thank you for having me. Awareness and prompt action can make all the difference in managing scabies effectively.