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Head LiceLice infestation on the human body (also known as pediculosis) is very common. Cases number in the hundreds of millions worldwide. Lice die if they are away from a human's head or body for more than 2 days. Lice are 1-3 mm long (about the size of a sesame seed) and cling to the hair shaft. During the life cycle of lice, the female louse lays eggs, called nits, that attach to the hair shaft close to the scalp or body. These nits, which resemble dandruff, are attached with a gluelike, water-insoluble substance that makes them difficult to remove. After 6-10 days, the nits hatch as nymphs and become adults in 10 days. Adult lice live about 30 days on their human hosts.Children aged 3-10 years in preschool, elementary school, or daycare centers are most likely to have lice. All socioeconomic classes are affected. Lice can appear in anyone's hair (more common in girls than boys), no matter what hair length or the person's degree of cleanliness. Lice are seen less often, however, in African Americans due to hair type. Head lice will not infect dogs, cats, or other pets. Lice Causes Head lice are transmitted mainly through head-to-head contact (sharing pillows, lying on carpet, wearing someone's hat). Head lice cannot jump or fly, so sitting near someone will not transmit lice. Indirect contact, such as with brushes and bed linens, is less likely to lead to transmission because the louse dies if away from the scalp for more than 2 days. Lice Symptoms Found behind the ears and near the hairline at the neck—but can be difficult to see (They can change color to match the hair.) Nits look like whitish shells found on the hair strand near the scalp. They are firmly attached to the hair shaft and cannot be flicked off easily. May have scalp itching, redness, and crusting or no symptoms at all. Can result in skin infections, especially if the bites are repeatedly scratched Infection can lead to swollen nodes that form lumps behind the ears and on the neck. When to Seek Medical Care When to call the doctor Lice can effectively be treated with home care methods. But call the doctor if these conditions develop: If skin or scalp infections develop from scratching, with symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, or tenderness to the area If home treatment doesn't work after using over-the-counter medications as directed If itching continues even after treatment with over-the-counter antihistamines If lice persist and treatment has failed, recheck for a change in anti-lice treatment When to go to the hospital If infections from scratching are not improving, are worsening while you are on medications, or if other symptoms develop such as fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting If you develop an allergic reaction to medications (indicated by a rash, swelling to the lips or tongue or if you have any trouble breathing) Self-Care at Home Search for head lice when hair is wet. Use a fine-toothed comb (or a louse comb), clear tape (to stick on hair to pick up nits), a magnifying glass, and a strong light. Wet combing should be done every 2-3 days over a 2-week period, with small sections of hair, working out from the scalp. Some call this "bug busting," and it can be very effective. If lice are found, treat with an anti-lice agent and repeat in 7-10 days to kill newly hatched nits. How to use anti-lice agents: Over-the-counter treatment is available and should be used first. If after 2 applications, lice are still present, then prescription anti-lice agents may be needed from your doctor. Apply the anti-lice agent to dry hair for the time listed on the product (usually 10 minutes). Shampoo and rinse hair and comb as directed with a fine-toothed comb. Repeat anti-lice treatment in 7-10 days to kill nits that may have hatched. Nonprescription anti-lice agents include Nix Lotion (permethrin 1%) and Rid, A200, and Pronto shampoos (pyrethrin products). Check all household members and treat only if lice or nits are seen. If a child is younger than 2 years, comb to remove lice and nits but do not use anti-lice agents. Hair conditioners may coat or cover the lice, so they should not be used before applying anti-lice agents. Wash all bed linens and clothing that have been in contact with the infested person in the past 2 days. Use hot water and the hot cycle in the dryer. Some recommend that water be at least 140°F to effectively kill the lice and nits. Most hot-water heaters are set at 120°F for child safety. This lower temperature may be effective. All nonwashable items such as stuffed animals should be placed in plastic bags for 2 weeks then opened outdoors. Dry cleaning may be an alternative. Disinfect combs and brushes in hot water or alcohol. Soak for more than 5 minutes in very hot water (greater than 131°F or 55°C). Vacuum floors and furniture, especially couches and areas used by children. Throw away the vacuum bag immediately. Herbal therapy and oil treatments have not been proven to work. Do not use gasoline, kerosene, or oils. Burns have occurred. Do not shave the person's head. This drastic measure is not necessary. If lice are seen in a school-aged child, notify the school nurse or teacher in order to limit the spread. A number of essential oils are reputed to help to combat lice and Eucalyptus combined with Tea Tree makes a powerful combination. Eucalyptus is reputed to have excellent bactericidal properties as well as being a strong insect deterrent. Tea Tree is said to have great antiseptic properties and is powerful against organisms, bacteria, fungi and viruses. The best way to use the oils is to dilute them in carrier oil - apply to the scalp and leave overnight if possible before combing through the hair with a fine toothed comb to remove the eggs and lice. Keep treating the hair until no evidence of lice is seen. Once head lice have been dealt with effectively it is good to deter them as much as possible. The combination of Rosemary which is reputed to have strong antiseptic qualities as well as having been used in general hair care for hundreds of years, Nutmeg and Peppermint whose distinctive scent is one that insects dislike creates a good combination oil to use for deterring head lice. It is best to massage the oils gently but frequently into the scalp and hair. Always remember that lice love clean hair not dirty hair! |
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