Scabies, a contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite , is a concern for many. In addition to the typical skin symptoms of scabies, the mite can also live outside the body, including in your mattress. In this article we will discuss how scabies gets into a mattress, how to recognize, treat and prevent it.
How does scabies get into a mattress?
Scabies mites can survive for several days on objects and surfaces, such as bedding, clothing and mattresses. If an infected person comes into contact with these surfaces, the mites can land on them. This means that if you are infected with scabies and lie down on your mattress, the mites can burrow into your mattress. They move along the surface, lay eggs and excrete waste products, which can lead to further spread of the mites.
Recognizing scabies in a mattress
It is essential to note that the mites in your mattress will not cause any specific symptoms such as the itching and rashes that you experience on your skin. Instead, the symptoms are the same as scabies in general and occur when the mites directly infect your skin. If you sleep on a mattress infested with scabies mites, contact between the mites and your skin is limited. Still, it is possible to develop symptoms if your mattress is seriously infected.
Symptoms of scabies include:
- Intense itching, which usually gets worse at night.
- Small red bumps and pimples on the skin.
- Skin rash, sometimes with winding corridors .
- Redness and irritation of the skin.
These symptoms usually occur in specific locations such as the wrists, elbows, armpits, skin folds between the fingers, nipples, genitals, waist, belt line and buttocks.
Treatment of scabies in a mattress
Treating scabies in a mattress requires a different approach than treating the skin condition itself. If you suspect your mattress is infested with scabies mites, here are some steps you can take:
- Wash bedding and clothing: Wash all your bedding, pillowcases and clothing thoroughly on a high temperature. Scabies mites cannot survive at temperatures above 50°C.
- Vacuum and vacuum: Vacuum your mattress and the surrounding area thoroughly. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to collect the mites and their eggs.
- Mattress cover: Consider using a special mattress cover designed to repel scabies mites and allergens. Make sure that the cover is completely closable.
- Medical Treatment: If you develop symptoms of scabies, see a doctor immediately for proper medical treatment. The doctor may prescribe medications such as topical creams or lotions to kill the mites on your skin.
Prevention of scabies in your mattress
To prevent scabies from spreading in your mattress, you can take the following precautions:
- Avoid close contact with infected persons.
- Wash your bedding and clothing regularly at high temperatures.
- Vacuum your mattress and bedroom regularly.
- Use mattress covers specifically designed to repel scabies mites.
It is important to remember that early treatment of scabies can prevent its spread. If you suspect you are infected with scabies, see a doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Scabies burrows into your mattress, but this does not automatically mean you will develop symptoms. However, it is crucial to take precautions and ensure good hygiene to prevent the spread of scabies. If you notice symptoms or have any questions, seek professional medical attention for proper guidance and treatment.