Crabs

Crabs or Pubic Lice are tiny insects that infest the hair and skin in the pubic area. They are also known as Phthirus pubis. They are different from head lice and body lice.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of crabs is intense itching in the pubic area. Other symptoms include:

• Visible lice or eggs in pubic hair
• Low-grade fever
• Feeling run down
• Irritability
• Presence of lice in other body hair, such as eyelashes

Causes

Crabs are usually spread through sexual contact. Rarely, they can be spread through contact with an infested person's bed linens, towels, or clothes. A common misconception is that crabs are spread easily by sitting on a toilet seat. This is not likely, since lice cannot live long away from a warm human body. Also, lice do not have feet designed to walk or hold onto smooth surfaces such as toilet seats.

Treatment

Treatment for crabs usually involves medicine that kills lice and their eggs. Medicine is available over-the-counter or with a prescription. It is important to follow the instructions on the package or prescription label carefully.

Prevention

To prevent getting crabs, avoid sexual contact or sharing bedding or clothing with someone who has an infestation.

See Also

• Sexually Transmitted Diseases
• Lice
• Pubic Lice

Crabs Resources
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