Crabs
DEFINITION
Crabs is a species of body lice which are found in the pubic
hairs of the body.
hairs of the body.
DESCRIPTION
These tiny lice are usually found in large numbers and cause
irritation and itching in the pubic area. A close look will
identify these creatures clinging to the hair in the genital
region. There may also be nits (eggs) attached to the hair
shaft.
irritation and itching in the pubic area. A close look will
identify these creatures clinging to the hair in the genital
region. There may also be nits (eggs) attached to the hair
shaft.
The most common cause of infestation is because the crab-like
lice crawl directly from one person to another during intimate
contact.
lice crawl directly from one person to another during intimate
contact.
To diagnose the problem is simply a matter of checking the
pubic hair in a good light.
pubic hair in a good light.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
As with all conditions your Doctor should be consulted to
diagnose and treat this condition. Ask your Doctor about the latest
advice on this ailment.
diagnose and treat this condition. Ask your Doctor about the latest
advice on this ailment.
If you think that the crabs were sexually transmitted, have a
full STD (sexually transmitted disease) check by your Doctor.
full STD (sexually transmitted disease) check by your Doctor.
DIET HINTS
The diet plays only a small part in treating Pubic Lice. It is
however important to include foods which are high in nutritional
value.
however important to include foods which are high in nutritional
value.
Increasing foods which are high in the B Vitamins may be a
good idea. This group includes peas, beans, raw nuts, sardines and
wholegrain bread. The latter is good because of its fibre content
and this will help to keep the bowels working.
good idea. This group includes peas, beans, raw nuts, sardines and
wholegrain bread. The latter is good because of its fibre content
and this will help to keep the bowels working.
Some general guidelines include avoiding heavy, hard to digest
meals e.g., fried food.
meals e.g., fried food.
Eat plenty of fruit at least three serves a day. If any is
left over, make your own fresh fruit juice at home and drink a
glassful at least twice a day.
left over, make your own fresh fruit juice at home and drink a
glassful at least twice a day.
VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS
Tea Tree oil application directly to the affected area (beware
of applying Tea tree oil directly to mucous membranes or sensitive
skin).
of applying Tea tree oil directly to mucous membranes or sensitive
skin).
PHARMACIST’S ADVICE
Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
- The Pharmacy will give you a lotion or shampoo for lice. There
are several available. People with a lot of body hair (e.g., chest
and underarm) should shampoo it all – not just the pubic hair.
Note: Some lice shampoos are not suitable for pregnant women. - Do not shave the hair off, but do comb the crabs’ eggs (nits)
out with a fine toothed comb available from the Pharmacy after
shampooing. - Wash the bed linen, towels and clothes in hot water to prevent
reinfection, and repeat the whole process a week later to kill off
any new hatchings. Inform your current partner of the problem as he
or she may need treatment. - If the diet is considered inadequate, consider some nutritional
supplements. These may include zinc and B group vitamins to enhance
the immune system of the body.
