Head lice is a common parasitic infestation that primarily affects children. It is caused by small insects that feed on blood from the scalp and spread quickly through direct contact. Although head lice do not cause serious health problems, they can be bothersome and persistent.
Symptoms
Head lice are small and difficult to see, but the symptoms can be quite noticeable:
- Itching, caused by an allergic reaction to lice bites.
- Tickling sensation on the scalp, as if something is moving in the hair.
- Red bumps or irritation, especially near the hairline, behind the ears, and on the neck.
- White or yellowish nits (eggs) attached to the hair strands close to the scalp.
- Small grayish-brown or black lice, sometimes visible upon inspection.
Causes
Head lice spread through direct head-to-head contact. Children are most at risk because they often play closely together.
- Direct contact, such as hugging, playing, or sitting close together on a couch.
- Sharing hairbrushes, hats, scarves, or pillows.
- Crowded places such as schools, daycare centers, and sports clubs.
A common misconception is that head lice are related to poor hygiene. This is not true; lice can infest anyone, regardless of how often they wash their hair.
Diagnosis
An accurate diagnosis can easily be made at home:
- Comb the hair with a fine-toothed lice comb over white paper or a sink.
- Look for lice and nits: nits stick to the hair root and are hard to remove, while lice move quickly.
- Check especially behind the ears and on the neck, as lice prefer these areas.
If in doubt, a doctor or pharmacist can provide guidance.
Treatment
Treating head lice requires patience and precision. Effective methods include:
1. Wet Combing (Without Chemicals)
- Wash the hair and apply conditioner to make lice removal easier.
- Use a fine-toothed lice comb and comb through the hair carefully, from root to tip.
- Repeat daily for two weeks to remove all lice and nits.
2. Using Lice Treatments (If Needed)
- Special shampoos and lotions are available at pharmacies and drugstores.
- Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully.
- Usually, a second treatment after 7-10 days is required to kill newly hatched lice.
3. Cleaning the Environment
- Wash bedding, stuffed animals, and hats at at least 60°C (140°F).
- Vacuum couches, car seats, and carpets.
- Seal non-washable items in a plastic bag for 48 hours, as lice cannot survive longer than this without feeding.
Self-Care tips
- Regular checks: Comb children’s hair weekly with a lice comb.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, and hair accessories.
- Tie long hair back (ponytail or braid) in schools and daycare centers.
- Inform schools or daycare centers if lice are detected so other parents can check their children.
Photo 1: The adult head louse is 3 mm in size.
Photo 2: Nit of a head louse, glued to a hair strand.
Photo 3: The head louse at actual size: specimen on a 10 euro cent coin.