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Understanding Scabies: The Itch Explained

Key Information:

  • The Unbearable Itch: If you are dealing with an intensely itchy rash that feels almost unbearable, especially at night, it might be scabies.
  • The Cause: Scabies is caused by a tiny mite (too small to see) that burrows into the outer layer of the skin to lay eggs.
  • Why it Itches: The powerful itch is actually an allergic reaction your body has to the mite and its eggs. This is why it is so persistent and disrupts sleep.
  • Transmission: It is caught through close, lengthy skin-to-skin contact (like holding hands for a while).
  • Myth Buster: Scabies has nothing to do with being unclean. It can affect absolutely anyone.

Symptoms: What to Look For

  • Intense Itch: Typically much worse at night.
  • The Rash: Often looks like tiny red spots.
  • The Burrows (The Specific Sign): Look closely for fine, silvery, or dark wavy lines on the skin (only a few millimetres long). These are the tunnels made by the mite.

 

 

Common Hiding Places

  • Between fingers.
  • Wrists and elbows.
  • Around the armpits.
  • Along the waistline.

What Happens Next?

If these symptoms sound familiar, please do not be alarmed. Scabies is treatable. The first step is to get a diagnosis.

Please contact us through the link below if you have concerns. If possible, attach photos of the rash to help us confirm the diagnosis and get you the right treatment.

Discuss Your Concerns

 

 

Further Information

Treating Scabies

Scabies: Why am I Still Itching After Treatment?

For more information about how eczema presents, how to manage it and treatment, please visit the NHS website.

Learn more about eczema

 

 

Last reviewed: 26 December 2025
Next review due: 26 December 2028