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Public Lice, or commonly known as
Crabs, is an infestation of a parasite, called Pthirus pubis, which attach themselves to pubic or any other hair on the
body. It is estimated that 3 million cases of lice are reported each year,
and can be transmitted by just some form of physical contact. Most cases
though are transmitted through sexual contact when the pubic lice are the most
vulnerable to be able to move from person to person.
The most common symptom of crabs is itching, which is caused by a allergic
reaction to the lice biting the skin. A person may also detect crab eggs,
or nits, attached to the base of the pubic hair near the skin, they are oval in
shape and white in color. They are usually found in the pubic hair, but
can also be found in other course hair like the armpits, eyelashes, and even
your beard or mustache.
There are different ways to treat crabs, one is the use of a permethrin
cream, which can be bought over the counter, and is applied then washed off
after 10 minutes. There is also a Lindane shampoo which is a prescription
only shampoo, and is to be used properly, for it has the potential to cause
central nervous system complications. Also you should not use the product
on any broken skin, and is not recommended for pregnant women, children under 2,
and people with dermatitis.
After the treatment of crabs, you will need to remove the nits, crab eggs,
which can be removed with fingernails, or a lice comb. You will need to
remove all the sheets off your bed and put new ones on, wash the old ones.
Plus if you have had recent sex with a partner, you will need to contact them,
and notify them to get treated as well. If the treatment of crabs is
unsuccessful, contact your health care provider for more assistance.
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