What are the common treatment methods for scabies?

Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by scabies mites, commonly found in skin folds such as between the fingers, wrists, elbows, armpits, waist, buttocks, and inner thighs. Common treatment methods include the following:

1. Topical medications: Commonly used drugs include sulfur ointment, salicylic acid ointment, and crotamiton cream. These medications have insecticidal and anti-itch properties, effectively killing scabies mites and relieving symptoms. When applying the medication, it should be spread over the entire body from the neck down to the feet, paying particular attention to easily missed areas such as skin folds, around the anus, and along the edges of the fingernails.

2. Oral medications: For severe cases of scabies or when topical treatments are ineffective, doctors may prescribe oral medications such as ivermectin. This is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug that effectively kills scabies mites. However, it must be used strictly under medical supervision, with attention to possible side effects.

3. Cleaning and disinfection: During treatment, patients should bathe frequently, change into clean clothes and bedding, and wash or sun-dry items such as clothing, bed sheets, and towels that have been in contact, to prevent reinfestation or spreading the mites to others.

4. General care: During treatment, patients should remain at home in isolation and avoid contact with others to prevent transmission. Additionally, they should keep their skin clean and dry, wear loose and comfortable cotton clothing, and avoid scratching to prevent secondary infections.

There are various treatment options for scabies, and patients should choose appropriate methods under a doctor's guidance based on their individual condition.