Scabies and Urinary Tract Infections

Pediculosis (Pubic Lice, Crabs) and Scabies

Crabs is caused by small, grayish white lice which infest the pubic and axillary hair. Their eggs may be seen attached to the base of the hair. Itching of the pubic area is the main symptom of pediculosis, but since this is probably an allergic reaction to the louse, itching may not always occur.

Scabies is caused by tiny mites which are at most half a millimeter in length and are difficult to see. Scabies can, however, be reliably diagnosed by a physician. Scabies usually infest areas between the fingers and toes, wrists, elbows, armpits, buttocks, breasts, genitals, and other areas of contact. Small red bumps or tiny lines (burrows) may appear.

Treatment is by commercially available lotions such as Kwell or Gamene, which you apply following a bath or shower. To avoid re-infestation, all clothing and bedding should be washed in very hot water or dry cleaned, and all sex partners should be treated.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Cystitis, Urethritis, bladder infections, and other urinary tract infections are infections, usually bacterial, of the urinary tract that cause painful frequent urination, lower abdominal pain, or pain during intercourse. UTIs primarily affect women because of their relatively short urinary tract. However, men may also get UTIs.

Illustration of Urinary Tract Infections

Some UTIs are sexually transmitted or at least caused by vigorous or repeated intercourse. Simple hygiene rules can minimize the risk of infection, including wiping from front to back after defecation, keeping the urethra, vaginal and anal areas clean, urinating when the urge is felt rather than waiting for a long time, urinating immediately after intercourse and drinking fluids to keep the urine diluted and urinary tract flushed.
UTIs are usually treated with sulfa drugs or an antibiotic, and often respond within 48 hours. Intercourse must be avoided until the UTI is cured.

-Taken from The College Student's Health Guide, Sandra Smith, Christopher Smith

Non-Gonococcal Urethritis (NGU)

Non-Gonococcal Urethritis is an inflammation of the male urethra that is not caused by gonorrhea. It is similar to a UTI, and medical attention should be sought.