What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Scabies, Lice, and Crabs?

Scabies, Lice, and Crabs Overview Symptoms Complications & Risks Testing & Diagnosis Treatment Prevention Do I Have Scabies, Lice, and Crabs

Symptoms

Symptoms appear 1-3 weeks after infection.

Scabies has some clear symptoms:

  • Severe itching
  • Sores caused by the scratching
  • Rash or burrows on the skin, especially in folds of skin

Symptoms of pubic lice include:

  • Itching
  • Visible nits or live lice
  • Rash or burrows on the skin - especially in folds of skin

Obviously itching is a symptom of both conditions, without other symptoms it can't be clear which, if either, you have.

See more: Anonymous Symptom Checker

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Quick snapshot

Can it be cured?

Yes. Both scabies and crabs are easily treated.

Type of Infection

Parasitic. Scabies is caused by the mite, Sarcoptes scabei. And crabs are caused by pubic lice, Phthirus pubis.

How is it treated?

Medicated Lotions. Both conditions are treated with specific medicated lotions; Additionally in both cases, all clothing and bedding should be washed in hot water.

Recovery Time

Upto 2 weeks. Itching may take 2-3 weeks to go away completely.

Can I have sex?

No. Sex is not recommended until treatment of you and your partner(s) is complete.

Can I get re-infected?

Yes. If you are exposed to a person, especially sexually, re-infestation is entirely possible.