Pubic pediculosis: symptoms and treatment, how lice look and are transmitted

Tiny parasitic lice that infest the pubic hair region cause pubic pediculosis, also referred to as "crabs." These insects are not the same as scalp-eating head lice. They cause pain and itching in the affected areas because they feed on human blood. Even though it is not fatal, the illness can cause significant discomfort and embarrassment to those who have it.

Usually during sexual activity, close physical contact is the means by which these lice are spread. But they can also spread through clothes, towels, or bedding that has been infected. Early detection of infestation signs is crucial in order to stop the infestation from spreading to other areas.

This post will discuss the signs and symptoms of pubic lice as well as the available treatments. Reducing discomfort and averting recurrence of the condition can be achieved by learning how to recognize and treat it.

Symptoms of pubic lice in men and women

Phthiriasis is primarily characterized by persistent itching in the insect-localized area. Crabs’ saliva, which seeps into the wound when they bite, is what causes it. In addition, the person experiences nighttime itching that makes it difficult for them to sleep. Constant scratching of the skin causes localized redness and irritation.

Bluish patches on the skin are another sign of pubic pediculosis. After a bite, they develop from hemorrhages and the buildup of products related to hemoglobin breakdown. The spots can have a diameter of up to one centimeter.

On the parts of skin impacted by insects, a rash, tiny papules, and purulent blisters frequently develop. Undergarments may have dark brown dots on them, which are remnants of pubic lice excrement. When the scalp is thoroughly examined, nits, or crab eggs, are discovered.

Lice primarily affect the pubis and genital region in females. Men’s bodies have a lot more hair than women’s, so in addition to their genitalia, men can find insects on their stomachs, chests, thighs, armpits, and arms.

Beards and mustaches are also good habitats for crab life.

LISTEN UP! Since pubic lice can only live on hair, phthiriasis can be avoided by shaving off extra hair.

What parasites look like and their life cycle

The crab is only a small size, measuring between 1 and 3 mm. Simultaneously, the male and female are roughly 1.5 times smaller. Because of its grayish-brown color, the insect is hard to find. The pubic louse has a small crab-like appearance. It clings to hair with its three pairs of rather large legs that have pincers on them. The crab can’t fly or jump, so it moves slowly.

The parasite has a 25–30 day life span on average. It only consumes blood as food. It cannot go longer than twenty-four hours without food. 50 eggs can be laid by a female in her lifetime. It takes a week for nits to develop because the human body temperature is comfortable for them.

A disorder called pubic pediculosis, sometimes referred to as pubic lice or "crabs," is brought on by microscopic parasites that contaminate the hair in the genital region. Close physical contact, usually during sexual activity, is how these lice are transmitted. Itching, inflammation, and little bluish patches in the affected area are some of the symptoms. Medicated lotions or shampoos that kill lice are commonly used in treatment, along with thorough washing of clothing and bedding to avoid re-infestation.

Where do they come from and how are they transmitted

Sexual contact is the primary means of phthiriasis infection. Through close contact, lice can transfer from a sick person to a healthy one. Furthermore, wearing personal protective equipment won’t keep parasites away from you. It is preferable to only have one sexual partner because there will be less chance of contracting pubic pediculosis.

Phthiasis can also infect you through day-to-day activities. This can occur in a bathhouse, on the beach, in a sauna, or in a swimming pool. If the towels and bed linens in a hotel or train were not properly laundered, there is a significant chance that you will contract the illness. You should only wear items that you own because clothing from other people can also spread the illness. You run the risk of becoming ill if you wipe yourself on a towel that has been contaminated.

People in the following groups are most prone to developing pubic pediculosis:

• prisoners;
• homeless people;
• laundry, sauna, and bathhouse employees;
• train conductors;
• military personnel living in barracks;
• vagrants;
• women of easy virtue.

MENTIONED Pthiriasis can spread through daily living, even to young people. There could be lice on their eyebrows and eyelashes.

Danger and possible consequences of infection

A dangerous and extremely contagious disease is pubic pediculosis. There will be grave repercussions if it is not treated in a timely manner. Dermatitis or eczema can result from persistently scratching the skin in response to intense itching. Furthermore, the surface damage creates an ideal environment for the entry of different infections. Boils, abscesses, and abscesses are all possible. In extreme circumstances, lymph node inflammation may even occur.

Crab bites cause a sick person to be in constant discomfort and disrupt their sleep patterns. He then starts to experience depression, neuroses, and headaches. Issues that affect the heart and other internal organs occur. There might be a rise in body temperature and a decrease in appetite.

The body experiences allergic reactions when bitten by parasites. Blepharitis occurs when insects contaminate the brows or eyelashes. Conjunctivitis could appear.

Treatment – how to get rid of pubic lice at home quickly and effectively

Pubic pediculosis is curable at home. There are numerous pharmacy, folk, and cosmetic remedies for this.

Pharmacy and cosmetic products

You can get great, fast-acting flatworm removal products at pharmacies and cosmetic stores:

1. Medifox. It is produced in the form of a gel (cream) for hair treatment and a 5% concentrate for obtaining an emulsion. The active component in the composition is permethrin, it is what affects nits and lice. To obtain an aqueous emulsion, mix 4 ml of Medifox concentrate and half a glass of water. The finished product should be immediately applied to the affected areas. After 20 minutes, wash off with soap and water. The product is not recommended for use by children under one year old, nursing and pregnant women.
2. Boric ointment. A popular, effective and safe remedy for getting rid of lice. Has antifungal, disinfectant and antiparasitic effects. The ointment should be applied to the affected areas, and after half an hour, wiped off and washed off. After the procedure, the parasites must be combed out with a fine comb. The drug is contraindicated for people with renal insufficiency and skin diseases. It is not recommended to use the ointment for children from 0-1 years old, as well as nursing and pregnant women.
3. Nittifor. A drug for external use, has a detrimental effect on pubic nits and flatworms. Available in the form of a water-alcohol solution and cream. How to use: rub the cream thoroughly into the affected areas and leave for a few minutes to take effect. When the parasites die, comb them out of the hair with a fine comb. Apply the water-alcohol solution to the affected areas and leave for 40 minutes, then rinse with water. Repeat the treatment after 5 days. It is forbidden to use the product for children aged 0-5 years, pregnant and lactating women, as well as people with hypersensitivity to the drug and acute inflammation of the skin.
4. Pedikulen Ultra Lotion. Destroys nits and pubic lice. Apply the lotion to problem areas and leave for 20 minutes, then rinse with water. Then remove the lice and nits with a comb. Repeat the procedure after a week.
5. Pedilin Shampoo and Emulsion. Used to eliminate pubic and head lice. Apply with a gauze or cotton swab for half an hour. Afterwards, rinse off the product and remove the insects. After two weeks, if necessary, the actions can be repeated.
6. Medilis-super. Treat the areas where lice accumulate with the preparation. Leave for 25 minutes, then wash off with soapy water and rinse with clean water. Comb out the parasites with a comb.
7. Veda-2 shampoo. Apply the product to the hair affected by insects, slightly moistening it. Leave for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly under running water. Comb out any lice remaining in the hair after the procedure.
8. Vitar soap. Lather the affected areas thoroughly. Rinse off with warm water after 30 minutes. Repeat the procedure every week until the pubic lice have completely disappeared.

Crucial! You have to carefully read the instructions before using any of the products for treatment. It is not allowed to use the medication if adverse effects or allergic reactions happen while it is being used.

Folk remedies

Additionally, you can combat flatworms by using home remedies. These techniques are equally efficient and cost-effective:

1. Apple cider vinegar. Dilute the vinegar with water to a 3% concentration. Apply to problem areas for 30 minutes, then rinse with water. Repeat the treatment for at least three days in a row. Under the influence of acid, insects will quickly die.
2. Kerosene. A very effective remedy, removes flatworms in one day. You need to take 10 spoons of sunflower oil and one spoon of kerosene, mix everything. Dip a gauze napkin in the mixture and apply it to the affected area. Cover with cellophane film on top and fix with adhesive tape or bandage. After three hours, remove the compress and rinse the treated area with water. This The treatment method is not suitable for children, nursing and pregnant women. In addition, kerosene should be handled with care, as it can cause burns to the mucous membranes.
3. Birch tar. You need to take 3 cups. tablespoons of tar and mix with three tablespoons of butter. Treat all affected areas with the prepared mixture. You can shave your hair before the procedure. The course of treatment is at least 10 days.

Although it can be uncomfortable and irritating, pubic pediculosis is treatable with the appropriate care. Knowing the signs, which include itching and visible lice or nits, will enable you to identify the issue early and get treatment right away.

Lice-killing shampoos and lotions that are available over-the-counter are typically used as treatments. It’s critical to carefully follow the directions and, if necessary, repeat the treatment. Furthermore, high-temperature washing of bedding and clothes can stop re-infestation.

Keeping oneself clean and avoiding close contact can help lower the chance of contracting or spreading pubic lice. It is best to speak with a healthcare professional for more guidance and treatment options if symptoms worsen or persist.

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