Several factors cause eczema, but the most common cause is genetics, whereas scabies is caused by microscopic mites that live on the skin.
Among the differences between scabies and eczema is that scabies affects the outer layers of the skin while eczema affects the inner skin.
In the case of scabies, the symptoms are very visible and can be very painful. However, in the case of eczema, the symptoms are less visible and tend to take a much longer time to appear.
Symptoms of Scabies vs Eczema
Symptoms of scabies and eczema are quite similar but they are also very different. The difference is that eczema is a skin rash, while scabies is a skin infection.
People can get scabies from contact with mites. The mites are eight-legged creatures that burrow into your skin. They feed on your body and leave waste behind. They then spread to other people. You can also spread the infection to other people by sharing clothing or bedding.
The mites lay eggs and they live in groups of around 15 mites. The female mite will burrow into the first layer of your skin. After laying eggs, she will form a tunnel where the larvae can develop. The larvae will grow into mites and they can then feed on your skin.
The mites can spread to other people through skin-to-skin contact, so it is important to avoid skin-to-skin contact with people who have scabies. You can also help prevent the spread of the disease by not sharing towels or bedding.
Eczema symptoms include:
- Dry and itchy skin
- A desire to scratch
- Skin that is rough
- Inflamed skin
- Crusting or oozing on the skin
- Rashes and itching that cause swelling
Scabies symptoms include:
- Itching, especially at night
- Skin rashes anywhere on the body
- A few tiny blisters and bumps
- A pimple-like rash on the skin
- Thick crusts on the skin
- Sores
Causes of Scabies and Eczema
Symptoms of scabies and eczema can be similar, but the treatments are different. Eczema is a skin condition that affects adults and children and starts in adolescence. It typically causes red patches on the skin that may itch.
Although both conditions are skin ailments, scabies is contagious, while eczema is not. Eczema is the result of genetic and environmental factors, while scabies is the result of an infestation of microscopic mites.
If you or someone you know suffers from scabies or eczema, you should see a doctor for treatment. Treatment can include medication, creams, or other skin care products.
In addition, you should be careful about sharing clothing, towels, or bedding with someone who has scabies.
How Eczema Differs From Scabies
- Both conditions affect the skin, but scabies is contagious while eczema is not.
- Scabies is caused by microscopic skin mites, while eczema is caused by environmental factors and genetics.
- Some atypical areas that may be affected by scabies include the buttocks, genital area, armpits, soles of the feet, and breasts. Typical areas of the body affected by Eczema are the face, the hands, the feet, and the elbows.
- Eczema is diagnosed by physical examination of the skin. Scabies is diagnosed by taking skin samples from the affected area and examining them under a microscope for mite eggs and feces.
- There is a difference between treatment for scabies and that for eczema in that scabies is treated more with a view to eliminating the mites, whereas eczema is treated with a view to controlling and managing its symptoms.
- When it comes to treating scabies, permethrin is the most commonly prescribed drug.
Treatment Options
Symptoms of scabies can take as little as six weeks to appear and can occur anywhere. It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. If left untreated, scabies can spread to other areas of the body, leading to a secondary infection.
Scabies is caused by mites that burrow under the top layer of skin and lay eggs. These eggs can easily be spread to others through skin-to-skin contact or by sharing bedding. People with scabies should treat themselves and everyone else who has been in close contact with an infected person.
Treatments for scabies vary based on the type of rash and severity. Some treatments include topical medications, phototherapy and biologic drugs.
Patients may also avoid certain irritants that may trigger flare-ups. Keeping a moisturizer and a gentle cleansing routine can also help.
Permethrin cream and malathion lotion (brand name Derbac M) are the most widely used treatments for scabies. Both medications contain insecticides that kill the scabies mite.
A 5% solution of permethrin cream is usually used as a first treatment. A 0.5% solution of malathion lotion is usually used if permethrin is not effective.
Diagnosis
Often, eczema and scabies rashes look alike. They are often red and crusty, and the lesions can be thick and itchy. However, there are key differences between the two skin disorders.
Scabies is a skin condition caused by a mite that burrows beneath the surface of the skin. These mites are called Sarcoptes scabiei hominis. The mites are so small that the human eye cannot see them.
The mites spread easily, especially when people are in close contact. They also feed on human skin. In some cases, the rash can be triggered by environmental factors, like irritants or allergens.
In some cases, the skin may develop an auto-immune response, which can lead to a bacterial infection. The infection can cause sores with pus.
In infants, scabies can also occur on the soles of the feet. In adults, rashes can appear in any location. The rashes are often intensely itchy and may cause blisters.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends a skin sample be taken to help diagnose scabies. A healthcare provider can use a microscope to find and identify mites.
When to See a Doctor for Scabies or Eczema?
Despite the similar symptoms of scabies and eczema, the two conditions are not the same. Scabies shows itself in tiny blisters, while eczema may cause skin sores. Both rashes can cause itching, scratching, and discomfort.
If you suspect scabies, seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor may diagnose the condition based on your personal history and a physical exam. He or she can also use a microscope to check for mites.
Final thoughts
Symptoms of scabies and eczema can be similar, but the two diseases have different treatment options. You should visit your doctor as soon as you notice a rash if you are uncertain whether you have scabies or eczema.
Scabies is a skin condition that occurs due to a reaction to mites on your skin. These tiny microscopic mites burrow under your skin and lay eggs.
You will see a red rash with small pimple-like bumps on your skin. It can take a few weeks for the symptoms of scabies to develop.
