Do You Get Scabies In Your Hair? Understanding Infestation and Treatment
While scabies typically infests areas with skin folds, do you get scabies in your hair? The short answer is that while uncommon, scalp infestation is possible, especially in infants, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.
Scabies: An Overview
Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. These mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin, where they live and lay eggs. The infestation leads to intense itching, particularly at night, and a pimple-like skin rash. Transmission occurs through prolonged, direct skin-to-skin contact with an infested person.
How Scabies Infestation Occurs
The female mite burrows into the skin, creating a tunnel where she lays eggs. These eggs hatch in a few days, and the larvae then migrate to the surface of the skin. As the larvae mature into adult mites, they can spread to other areas of the body or to other people through close contact. The itching associated with scabies is an allergic reaction to the mites, their eggs, and their waste products.
Common Scabies Symptoms
The most common symptoms of scabies include:
- Intense itching, especially at night.
- A pimple-like rash.
- Tiny burrows or tracks on the skin.
- Sores caused by scratching.
These symptoms are typically found in areas such as:
- Between the fingers and toes
- Wrists
- Elbows
- Armpits
- Genitals
- Buttocks
- Waistline
Do You Get Scabies In Your Hair? – Addressing the Scalp
While scabies most commonly affects the areas listed above, the question remains: do you get scabies in your hair? Technically, scabies mites prefer skin and can infest the scalp, especially in cases of crusted scabies or in individuals with weakened immune systems. This is because the scalp provides a suitable environment for the mites to burrow and reproduce.
- Infants: In infants, scabies infestation often includes the scalp, face, and neck.
- Elderly and Immunocompromised: Elderly individuals and those with compromised immune systems are also more susceptible to scalp infestation because their immune response may be less effective at controlling the mite population.
- Crusted Scabies: Crusted scabies (Norwegian scabies) is a severe form of scabies where the skin becomes thick and crusty, containing large numbers of mites. In these cases, the scalp is frequently involved.
Diagnosis of Scabies on the Scalp
Diagnosing scabies on the scalp can be more challenging than diagnosing it on other parts of the body. The symptoms may mimic other skin conditions, such as seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis. A doctor will typically examine the scalp for signs of burrows or mites. A skin scraping may be taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Scalp Scabies
The treatment for scabies on the scalp is similar to that for scabies on other parts of the body. It typically involves the use of topical medications called scabicides, such as:
- Permethrin cream: This is a commonly prescribed scabicide that is applied to the entire body, including the scalp, and left on for 8-14 hours before being washed off.
- Lindane lotion: Lindane is another scabicide, but it is generally not recommended for children, pregnant women, or individuals with seizure disorders due to potential neurotoxicity.
- Ivermectin: This is an oral medication that may be prescribed for severe cases of scabies, including crusted scabies, or when topical treatments have failed.
In addition to scabicides, other treatments may be recommended to relieve itching and inflammation, such as:
- Antihistamines: These can help reduce itching.
- Corticosteroid creams: These can help reduce inflammation.
It is crucial to treat all household members and close contacts simultaneously to prevent re-infestation. Additionally, washing all clothing and bedding in hot water and drying them on high heat can help eliminate mites that may be present.
Prevention of Scabies
Preventing scabies involves avoiding close contact with infested individuals and practicing good hygiene. This includes:
- Avoiding skin-to-skin contact with someone who has scabies.
- Not sharing clothing, bedding, or towels with someone who has scabies.
- Washing clothing and bedding in hot water and drying them on high heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can scabies live in hair follicles?
No, scabies mites do not typically live within hair follicles. They prefer to burrow into the skin’s surface. However, they can be present on the scalp’s surface, especially near the base of hair shafts.
How can I tell if my scalp itching is from scabies or something else?
Scabies-related itching is intense and usually worse at night. Look for small, pimple-like bumps or burrows on the scalp. Other causes include dandruff, allergies, or fungal infections. A doctor can provide a definitive diagnosis.
Is it possible to have scabies only on the scalp?
While uncommon, it’s possible to have a primary scabies infestation on the scalp, especially in infants, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems. Usually, though, other areas of the body are also affected.
What is the best shampoo for treating scabies on the scalp?
No shampoo is specifically designed to kill scabies mites. Scabicide medications, such as permethrin cream, are the most effective treatment and should be prescribed by a doctor. Shampoos containing sulfur might offer some relief from itching, but are not a substitute for proper medication.
How long does it take for scabies to go away after treatment?
Itching may persist for several weeks after treatment, even if the mites are dead. The rash and burrows should start to heal within a few days. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and complete the entire course of treatment.
Can I catch scabies from my pet?
No, human scabies mites are different from the mites that infest animals (mange). You cannot catch scabies from your pet, and your pet cannot catch scabies from you.
What should I do if my scabies treatment doesn’t seem to be working?
If your scabies treatment is not effective, consult your doctor. You may need a different medication, a longer course of treatment, or further investigation to rule out other skin conditions. Re-infestation from untreated contacts is another common cause of treatment failure.
Are there any natural remedies for scabies?
While some natural remedies, like tea tree oil, may offer some relief from itching, they are not a substitute for prescription scabicides. There is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness in killing scabies mites. Always consult with a doctor before using natural remedies.
How often should I wash my bedding and clothing during scabies treatment?
Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (at least 130°F or 54°C) and dry them on high heat every day during treatment. This helps to kill any mites that may be present. Also dry clean items that cannot be washed.
Can I go to work or school if I have scabies?
You can return to work or school 24 hours after the first application of scabicide treatment. Before that, you risk spreading the infestation to others.
Is scabies contagious even before symptoms appear?
Yes, scabies is contagious even before symptoms appear. The incubation period is typically 2-6 weeks for a first-time infestation, during which time a person can spread the mites without knowing they are infested.
Where can I find more information about scabies?
Consult your doctor or a dermatologist for accurate medical advice. Reliable online resources include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). These organizations provide comprehensive information about scabies, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Understanding do you get scabies in your hair and how the condition appears more generally will aid in treatment and relief.