Re: How much longer?

You mentioned you had a dog with related health problems. Sorry for your loss and trial you and your daughter are going thru.
Yes, challenges to certain aspects of the immune system may cause a person to be symptomatic from demodex. And, this may very well be what you are dealing with.

BUT -- because you did not produce an actual "mite" you do not know for certain that it is demodex. Yes, pH and other conditions can cause an overgrowth of demodex and symptoms (BTW metronidazole as noted by an earlier poster - is an Antibiotic and will have not affect on demodex - the dermatologist was most likely treating the bacterial component of Acne etc.)

All animals (pets, rabbits and other mammals) almost always are infested with a mite known loosely as a 'fur' mite. Cheylettiela (sp) is a prominent Genus found on dogs, (cats have a species but hard to find on a cat due to the grooming) rabbits, squirrels, rodents, raccoons and is just ubiquitous.

Previously entomologist would insist on former conventional wisdom that these things are 'species' specific. But, even they acknowledge that this (and many other similar Genus in this category) are not so specific - perhaps prefer a certain host -- but will often make due on humans -- especially those with compromised immunity.

This 'fur' mite is back with vengeance since we do not dip or treat pets with approved pyrethroid pesticides as we did in the past.

Cheylettiela are acarid mites dwelling pretty much on the surface of skin - but can attach a bit firmly and cause symptoms - papules, itching etc.

The pattern includes the scalp, face, upper body and arms rump and flank. They can wander all over -- and cause dandruff big time - also known as 'walking" dandruff as they can get under a skin flake and move it. But, are most prominent in the scalp, face and upper body regions.

Bottom - line -- you had a pet -- and you and your daughter have compromised immunity (don't know the details or aspects) but are more susceptible to animal mites. And, while you may be symptomatic from your own demodex ( they cannot be eradicated but controlled only) - so get simple treatment for the 'fur' mite. Whole body 5% permethrin for at least 12 hours (must include scalp and carefully over face - keep eyes closed for a while and just inside the nose - nares). Because, they can live in the environment up to 12 weeks -- have to practice clean control over linens, upholstery and rugs and so on (will require thorough and repeated spraying with an insecticide to entire house).

I am a fan of alternative therapies when they work -- but do not condone needless suffering. Plus, many of the so called natural therapies are no less toxic to the body's system - but lure us into believing they are safe because they are unregulated.

So - get your doctor to prescribe two rounds of the whole body (ignore the outdated instructions of neck down application) 5% permethrin. The scalp plays a big role in harboring mites - (even the traditional scabies contrary to non evidenced based instructions for application).

If you have difficulty getting the doctor to prescribe a 'trial' treatment -- then either find another doctor or move on to the Internet and find the 5% permethrin.

Just get this under control and use something effective. You will have to treat weekly for at least two rounds and possibly even 4 - (not the same as scabies as these are not burrowing mites but acarid and are much harder to contain).

As for nasal worms -- have you really seen something? Where did you get this idea. If so -- then go to an ENT doctor and get him to 'remove' these from your sinuses properly. May have to shop until you can find one that is broader minded. But, if you can produce a sample, that is compelling.

I cannot go into details of my background - but please trust that few in the medical community are aware of the growing parasite and ecto parasite issues in our society. Training is very limited and the traditional literature even more so.

But, definitely - there are new enzootic diseases and mites are just as adaptable to forging to new hosts when needed - especially in the immune compromised.

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