What is it?
Pubic lice, commonly known as crabs, are tiny insects observed in your genital area. they are one-of-a-kind louse from head lice and frame lice. Measuring 1/16 inch or much less, pubic lice obtained their nickname because their bodies resemble tiny crabs.
What Causes it?
The most common way to get pubic lice is through sexual activity. In youngsters, pubic lice may occur on their eyelashes and eyebrow areas. This can be a sign of sexual abuse.
You may also get pubic lice after sharing clothing, bed sheets, or towels with an infected individual. (Source)
Also Read: All About Gonorrhea: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, Facts
Risk Factors
- Highly sexually active people and people infected by it in the past are at the most risk.
- Sexually abused kids or adults are at the highest risk.
Symptoms
Experiencing intense itching in your genital region is the biggest red flag. Pubic lice can spread to other areas with coarse body hair, like:
- Legs, arm hair
- Chest, underarm area
- Beard or mustache
- Eyelashes or eyebrows, more commonly in children
Complications
On-counter treatment includes a louse-killing lotion or gel. Although, a pubic lice infestation sometimes leads to complications such as:
Discolored skin and pale blue spots may develop on spots where pubic lice have been feeding for over 24 hours. Infections include itchy lice bites that cause you to scratch yourself raw, and these wounds are at high risk to get infected further.
Eye irritation, common in children who have pubic lice on their eyelashes may develop a type of conjunctivitis or pink eye problem.
Diagnosis & Treatment:
Self-diagnosis can be done but visiting a doctor is always preferred.
Seek immediate medical advice if:
- Over-the-counter products don’t help.
- You’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or recently delivered a baby.
- Your skin is bruised with itching
- Your condition is worsening over time.
Facts
- It has six legs; which makes them look like crab.
- They require human blood to survive, without its supply, they will die within 24–48 hours.
- A temperature of more than 130°F can kill both head lice and their nits.
- Itching worsens at night as our bodies show the least movement.
Can it be Prevented?
- For safety, do not share bedding or clothing with anyone who has an infestation.
- Get treatment if your signs are subtle.
Personal Prevention methods:
- Wash the hairy area with shampoo thrice a week. Leave the shampoo on the scalp for 20-30 minutes before rinsing with water.
- Vacuum your mattress and wash your bedsheets regularly to remove any lice. Prefer warm water to wash your clothes.
Also Read: All About Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, Facts
