Head lice(Pediculus humanus capitis)are wingless insects that feed off human blood on the scalp.
They are commonly found in school-age children, although anyone can contract them.
The most prominent symptom of head lice is an extremely itchy scalp.
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Itching occurs as an allergic reaction to the louse bites.
This article explains how head lice form, their symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
Humans are the only host for head lice.
They go through three distinct phases in their life cycle.
Nits generally hatch in one week.
Nymphs are newly hatched lice.
They are about the size of a pinhead and will be fully grown adults after about one week.
Adult lice are about the size of a sesame seed and are tan to grayish-white.
Depending on your hair color, they can be challenging to see.
Adults can lay up to eight nits daily and live up to a month on your scalp.
Without a blood meal several times daily, an adult louse will die within a few days.
Less commonly, they are spread through shared objects like hats, brushes, and pillows.
Check the crown of the head, around the bangs, ears, and neck.
These include:
you might have head lice and not have an itchy head.
It can sometimes take a few weeks after having lice for the itching to start.
Head Lice Treatment
Combing out the lice is the essential step of anyhead lice treatment.
A special lice comb with narrow teeth can help you remove nits and lice.
However, combing isn’t effective on its own.
You’ll need to comb after you’ve applied treatment.
Then, they shampoo and comb out the lice and nits in the morning.
While some people say these methods work, no evidence supports the claim.
OTC Medications
Many over-the-counter (OTC)lice treatmentsare available at drugstores.
These medicated shampoos usually includepyrethrinsorpermethrinas active ingredients.
If OTC treatment isn’t successful, you may need to see adermatologistfor assistance.
Prescription Medications
A healthcare provider may prescribe a stronger medication if OTC treatments don’t work.
Should You Stay Home With Head Lice?
Head lice are a nuisance, but, fortunately, they do not spread disease.
That’s because nits are not viable and are unlikely to be transferred to others, among other reasons.
Students may return to school after treatment has begun.
That means you could have head lice, go home and treat it, then return the next day.
If you have recurrent head lice, repeat the treatment, being as thorough as possible for the duration.
If you’re frustrated or overwhelmed, you might want to consult with a healthcare provider.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About head lice.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Pediculosis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How to examine for head lice.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Head lice: Signs and symptoms.
American Academy of Pediatrics.Head lice: What parents need to know.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Head lice: Diagnosis and treatment.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Providing care for individuals with head lice.
