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Overview
Scabies mites burrow under the skin.
It spreads by close contact.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayInfected sores.
See a doctor soonNight itching.
Causes
Caused by scabies mites.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause itching worse at night, or between the fingers. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- ScabiesSee a doctor if it doesn't get better
Tiny mites that burrow into the skin and cause intense itching, worst at night, often between the fingers, on the wrists, waist, or groin.
What you can do at home
- Wash bedding in hot water.
Medicines
Permethrin cream or ivermectin.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Contacts
The exam
A skin exam.
Tests
- Skin scraping
Prevention
Treat contacts.
- Treat household
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.