What should you do when lice appear on the head?

Identifying a Head Lice Infestation

Recognizing Symptoms

Itching and Irritation

Itching and irritation signal the presence of head‑lice activity. Bites stimulate a localized allergic reaction, producing redness, swelling, and persistent pruritus. Continuous scratching can damage the skin barrier, creating entry points for bacterial infection.

The scalp’s inflammatory response releases histamine, intensifying discomfort. Moisture from sweat or hair products exacerbates irritation, while secondary bacterial colonisation may develop if lesions are left untreated.

Clean the scalp with a medicated lice shampoo containing pyrethrin or dimethicone; follow label instructions for contact time.
Apply a soothing, fragrance‑free lotion or aloe‑based gel to reduce inflammation and moisturise damaged skin.
Trim or shave hair only if advised by a healthcare professional; this does not replace chemical treatment but may aid product penetration.
Use a fine‑toothed comb after each treatment session to remove nits and reduce mechanical irritation.
Avoid hot water washes, as heat can increase blood flow to the scalp and worsen itching.

Observe the scalp for signs of worsening redness, pus, or fever. Persistent or severe symptoms require medical evaluation to rule out secondary infection and to consider prescription‑strength anti‑lice medication.

Visible Lice and Nits

Visible lice are adult insects measuring 2–3 mm, typically brown or gray. Nits are eggs attached to hair shafts, appearing as oval, white or yellowish specks. Both are detectable without magnification when the scalp is examined closely.

To confirm an infestation, part the hair in sections and run a fine-tooth comb from the scalp outward. Observe the comb for live insects or nits firmly glued to the shaft. Remove any found specimens immediately.

Apply a pediculicide approved for scalp use, following the product’s exact timing instructions.
After the recommended exposure period, rinse thoroughly and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice.
Use a fine-tooth nit comb on wet hair to extract remaining nits; repeat combing every 2–3 days for two weeks.
Wash bedding, hats, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to eliminate dormant eggs.
Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove fallen lice and nits.

Inspect the scalp weekly for four weeks. Continue combing and treatment only if live lice are still present. Successful eradication requires thorough removal, correct product usage, and environmental decontamination.

Confirming the Diagnosis

Checking Hair and Scalp

When head lice are detected, a thorough examination of the hair and scalp is the first step in effective control. The examination must be systematic, covering the entire length of the hair and the skin beneath it.

Part the hair into small sections, using a fine-to‑tooth comb or a lice detection comb, and inspect each section closely.
Examine the scalp from the forehead to the nape, paying special attention to the hairline, behind the ears, and the back of the neck, where lice and nits are most commonly found.
Look for live insects, which appear as tiny, tan or grayish bodies moving quickly, and for nits, which are oval, yellow‑brown, and attached firmly to the hair shaft within a ¼‑inch of the scalp.
Use adequate lighting, preferably natural daylight or a well‑lit room, to improve visibility of small organisms and eggs.
Record any findings, noting the number and location of lice and nits, to guide subsequent treatment and follow‑up inspections.

A meticulous inspection identifies the infestation’s extent, informs the choice of treatment, and establishes a baseline for monitoring progress. Regular re‑examinations, performed every few days, confirm the effectiveness of interventions and prevent re‑infestation.

Distinguishing Nits from Dandruff

When lice infestations are suspected, accurate identification of the particles on the scalp prevents unnecessary treatment. Mistaking nits for dandruff can lead to prolonged discomfort and spread of parasites.

Visual characteristics separate the two:

«Nits» are oval, about 0.8 mm long, firmly attached to hair shafts near the scalp. They appear white or yellowish and do not flake off when brushed.
«Dandruff» consists of loose, grayish‑white flakes that detach easily from the scalp and fall onto shoulders. It lacks a solid attachment to individual hairs.

To verify the presence of nits:

Part hair close to the scalp and examine the base with a fine‑tooth comb.
Observe whether particles remain affixed after gentle pulling; attached particles indicate nits.
Compare size and shape with the description above; nits are larger and more egg‑shaped than typical dandruff flakes.

If nits are confirmed, initiate a treatment protocol promptly; otherwise, address dandruff with appropriate dermatological care.

Treatment Options and Procedures

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Pyrethrin-based Products

When lice infest a scalp, rapid elimination of the parasites and prevention of re‑infestation are essential. Pyrethrin‑based products represent a common chemical class used for this purpose.

Pyrethrins are natural extracts derived from chrysanthemum flowers. They act on the nervous system of lice, causing rapid paralysis and death. Formulations typically combine pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide, a synergist that enhances insecticidal activity by inhibiting metabolic detoxification in the parasite.

Effective use of pyrethrin products requires adherence to specific steps:

Apply the product to dry hair, ensuring thorough coverage from scalp to hair tips.
Leave the preparation on the scalp for the time specified in the label, usually 10 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water; avoid immediate shampooing unless directed.
Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice that survived the first application.
Comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb after each treatment to remove dead insects and eggs.

Safety considerations include:

Confirm that the user is not allergic to pyrethrins or piperonyl butoxide; perform a patch test on a small skin area 30 minutes before full application.
Avoid use on children under two years of age unless a pediatric formulation is approved.
Do not apply to broken or inflamed skin; seek medical advice if irritation occurs.

Resistance to pyrethrins has been reported in some lice populations. In such cases, alternative classes such as dimethicone or ivermectin may be required. Nonetheless, when susceptibility is confirmed, pyrethrin‑based treatments remain a fast‑acting, readily available option for eliminating head lice.

Permethrin-based Products

Permethrin‑based products represent the primary pharmacological option for eliminating head‑lice infestations. The active ingredient, permethrin, is a synthetic pyrethroid that disrupts the nervous system of lice, leading to rapid paralysis and death. Formulations are typically supplied as 1 % lotion or shampoo, approved for use on the scalp and hair.

Application procedure:

Apply the product to dry hair, ensuring thorough coverage from scalp to tips.
Leave the preparation on for the time specified in the label, usually 10 minutes.
Rinse with lukewarm water; avoid hot water, which may reduce efficacy.
Comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove dead insects and eggs.
Discard the comb after each use to prevent re‑contamination.

Safety guidelines:

Use only on individuals aged six months or older; infants require medical supervision.
Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and broken skin.
Do not apply to chemically treated hair unless the label explicitly permits it.
In cases of allergic reaction—rash, itching, or swelling—discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Resistance monitoring:

Re‑treatment after seven days addresses any newly hatched lice that survived the initial application.
Persistent infestation after two treatment cycles may indicate resistance; alternative agents such as dimethicone should be considered.

Environmental control:

Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks.
Vacuum upholstered furniture and car seats to eliminate detached lice and nits.

Proper adherence to these steps maximizes the effectiveness of permethrin‑based treatments and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.

Proper Application Techniques

When lice are detected on the scalp, correct product application determines treatment success.

Begin with a clean, dry head. Distribute the prescribed pediculicide evenly, covering every strand from roots to tips. Use a fine-toothed lice comb to spread the liquid, ensuring the solution reaches the nape, behind the ears and the crown.

Follow these steps:

Apply the product to a small section; allow it to soak for the time specified on the label (typically 10–12 minutes).
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water; avoid hot water that may degrade the active ingredient.
Repeat the process after the recommended interval, often 7–9 days, to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.

During each application, wear disposable gloves to prevent skin irritation and cross‑contamination. After treatment, wash all bedding, clothing and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for 48 hours.

Accurate adherence to dosage, timing and thorough combing eliminates the infestation and reduces the risk of re‑infestation. «Proper technique guarantees optimal results».

Prescription Medications

Ivermectin Lotion

When head lice are detected, immediate treatment is required to eliminate the infestation and prevent spread. Ivermectin Lotion offers a pharmaceutical option designed for topical application on the scalp.

The lotion contains ivermectin, an antiparasitic agent that interferes with nerve signaling in lice, leading to paralysis and death. Its action is selective for arthropod nervous systems, minimizing impact on human cells.

Application procedure:

Apply a thin layer of lotion to dry hair and scalp, covering all areas where lice may reside.
Allow the product to remain for the time specified in the label, typically 10 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water, avoiding excessive scrubbing.
Repeat the treatment after seven days to address any newly hatched nymphs.

Clinical studies report a cure rate exceeding 90 % after the second application, with adverse effects limited to mild scalp irritation in a minority of users. The formulation is approved for individuals aged six months and older, provided weight criteria are met.

Contraindications include hypersensitivity to ivermectin or any component of the lotion, pregnancy, and breastfeeding without medical guidance. Use with caution in patients with compromised skin integrity or severe dermatologic conditions.

Malathion Lotion

Malathion lotion is a topical insecticide formulated for the treatment of head‑lice infestations. The active ingredient, malathion, disrupts the nervous system of lice, leading to rapid mortality.

Key characteristics of the product include:

Concentration typically 0.5 % (w/v) for lice control, with higher strengths reserved for scabies.
Application to dry hair, ensuring thorough coverage of the scalp and all hair shafts.
Minimum contact time of 8 hours, after which the lotion is washed out with warm water and a mild shampoo.
Re‑treatment recommended after 7 days to eliminate any newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial exposure.

Safety considerations:

Avoid use on children under 6 months; pediatric formulations are not approved.
Do not apply to broken skin, irritated scalp, or open wounds.
Use protective gloves during application to prevent skin absorption.
In case of accidental ingestion or severe irritation, seek medical assistance promptly.

Effectiveness depends on adherence to the specified contact time and proper removal of the product. Failure to follow the protocol may result in reduced lice mortality and potential development of resistance. Regular inspection of the hair and scalp after treatment helps confirm eradication and guides the need for subsequent applications.

Spinosad Suspension

Spinosad suspension is a topical pediculicide formulated for the treatment of head‑lice infestations. The active ingredient, spinosad, is a natural bacterial fermentation product that disrupts the nervous system of lice, leading to rapid mortality.

The product is applied to dry hair, left in place for the period specified in the label (typically 10 minutes), then rinsed thoroughly. A second application is required 7–10 days after the first to eliminate newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial treatment.

Application protocol

Comb hair to remove loose debris and nits.
Dispense the measured amount of suspension onto the scalp, ensuring full coverage from the roots to the tips.
Maintain the prescribed contact time; do not exceed the maximum exposure.
Rinse hair with lukewarm water; avoid hot water, which may degrade the active ingredient.
Repeat the treatment after the recommended interval.

Safety considerations include avoiding use on children under 6 months, on compromised scalp skin, or in individuals with known hypersensitivity to spinosad. The formulation is generally well tolerated; transient itching or mild redness may occur but typically resolves without intervention.

Clinical studies demonstrate >95 % efficacy against adult lice and >90 % efficacy against eggs when the two‑dose regimen is followed. Resistance to spinosad remains low, making it a reliable option when other pediculicides fail.

Non-Chemical Approaches

Wet Combing with a Fine-Toothed Comb

When head lice are detected, wet combing with a fine‑toothed comb provides an effective, chemical‑free removal method.

Begin by dampening the hair with warm water and a generous amount of conditioner. The conditioner lubricates strands, allowing the comb to glide smoothly and capture lice and nits.

Use a fine‑toothed lice comb, starting at the scalp. Pull the comb through each section of hair from root to tip, wiping the teeth on a tissue after each pass. Repeat the process on every section, ensuring coverage of the entire head.

Perform the combing routine at least once daily for ten consecutive days. This schedule aligns with the life cycle of lice, preventing newly hatched nymphs from maturing and reproducing.

After each session, wash the comb in hot, soapy water and launder clothing, bedding, and towels in high temperature to eliminate any displaced insects.

Consistent wet combing, combined with thorough environmental cleaning, eradicates infestations without reliance on insecticidal products.

Suffocation Methods

Suffocation techniques provide a non‑chemical means of eliminating head lice by preventing the insects from accessing air. The approach relies on coating the hair and scalp with substances that seal the cuticle, leading to rapid desiccation of the parasites.

The method works by creating an airtight barrier around each louse, interrupting the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Depriving the insects of oxygen for a period of 8‑12 hours results in mortality without the need for insecticidal agents.

Apply a thick layer of petroleum‑based ointment (e.g., petroleum jelly) to the scalp and hair, ensuring coverage of all strands.
Spread a generous amount of olive oil or mineral oil over the hair, then cover with a plastic cap to maintain moisture.
Use a dense conditioner mixed with a small quantity of coconut oil; coat the hair thoroughly and wrap with a shower cap.
Place a fine‑mesh nylon stocking over the head, securing it with an elastic band to keep the coating sealed.
Enclose the entire head in a clear plastic bag, removing excess air before sealing; leave in place for the recommended duration.

Each technique requires the following steps: clean the scalp to remove debris, apply the chosen suffocating agent evenly, secure the covering to prevent slippage, maintain the seal for the full exposure period, then remove the covering and wash the hair with warm water and a mild shampoo to eliminate residual product. Repeat the process after 7‑10 days to address any newly hatched lice.

Precautions include avoiding excessive pressure that could cause scalp irritation, monitoring for allergic reactions to the applied substances, and ensuring that children do not sleep while the head is sealed. Proper disposal of used coverings prevents re‑infestation.

Essential Oils (with caution)

Lice detection on the scalp demands prompt action; essential oils may support control but require strict precautions.

Effective oils include:

«tea tree oil» – proven insecticidal properties; 0.5 % concentration recommended.
«lavender oil» – moderate repellant effect; 1 % dilution acceptable.
«neem oil» – ovicidal activity; 1 % solution advised.
«peppermint oil» – soothing scalp sensation; 0.5 % concentration safe.
«rosemary oil» – disrupts lice respiration; 0.5 % dilution recommended.

Safety measures:

Dilute all oils in a carrier such as coconut or olive oil; never apply undiluted.
Conduct a 24‑hour patch test on a small skin area before full application.
Exclude children under two years, pregnant or nursing individuals, and persons with known sensitivities.

Application protocol:

Mix the chosen oil at the indicated concentration with a carrier oil.
Apply evenly to dry hair, ensuring coverage of the scalp and hair shafts.
Leave for 30 minutes, then rinse with mild shampoo.
Use a fine-toothed comb to remove dead lice and nits.
Repeat the process every 3–4 days for two weeks.

Limitations: essential oils alone rarely achieve complete eradication; combine with mechanical removal and, when necessary, approved pediculicidal products.

Preventing Reinfestation

Cleaning and Disinfecting

Washing Bedding and Clothing

When lice infestations are detected, all fabrics that have contacted the scalp must be treated to prevent re‑infestation. Heat and isolation are the most reliable methods.

Wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and towels in water at a minimum temperature of 60 °C (140 °F).
Dry the items on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes.
Items that cannot endure high heat should be sealed in a plastic bag for forty‑eight hours, then laundered on a warm cycle.

Clothing worn during the infestation requires similar care. Separate garments from other laundry, apply the same temperature guidelines, and tumble‑dry on high heat. For delicate fabrics, use a steam cycle or professional dry‑cleaning services that guarantee thorough heat treatment.

All secondary items—hats, scarves, hair accessories, and stuffed toys—must undergo the same process or be placed in sealed bags for the same duration. Regularly changing and cleaning bedding eliminates viable lice and nits, breaking the life cycle and reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

Vacuuming Furniture and Floors

When head lice are detected, removing eggs and nits from the environment reduces reinfestation risk. Vacuuming upholstered furniture, carpets, and floor mats eliminates detached lice stages that have fallen from the scalp.

The process targets areas where hair fragments accumulate:

Use a vacuum equipped with a high‑efficiency filter.
Focus on seams, creases, and cushions of sofas, armchairs, and recliners.
Run the nozzle slowly over carpet fibers and rugs, covering each section at least twice.
Vacuum bedroom flooring, especially around the bed and nightstand.

After each session, empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outdoors. Clean the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain suction efficiency.

Regular vacuuming, performed every 2–3 days for two weeks, complements chemical treatment and helps break the lice life cycle. «Lice eggs can survive on fabrics for several days», therefore prompt and systematic cleaning is essential for successful eradication.

Sealing Non-Washable Items

When head lice are detected, immediate treatment of the scalp is required, followed by measures that prevent the insects from re‑entering the environment. Items that cannot be laundered, such as certain hats, scarves, wigs, or delicate pillows, must be isolated to break the life cycle of the parasites.

Sealing non‑washable objects involves placing each item in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. The enclosure should remain closed for at least 48 hours, the period during which lice cannot survive without a host. After this interval, items can be inspected and, if necessary, subjected to secondary treatments such as freezing or professional decontamination.

Practical steps:

Identify all non‑washable items that have been in contact with the infested individual.
Place each item in a zip‑lock bag or rigid container with a tight seal.
Store the sealed items in a cool, dry location for a minimum of two days.
After the storage period, examine items for any signs of lice or nits; dispose of any contaminated material.
For items that must remain in use, consider heat‑based methods (e.g., a hair dryer set on high for several minutes) or consult a specialist for appropriate sterilization.

By systematically sealing and isolating non‑launderable objects, the risk of re‑infestation is reduced, supporting the overall effort to eliminate head lice from the household.

Notifying Close Contacts

Family Members

When lice are discovered on a child’s scalp, the household must act as a coordinated unit.

Parents assume primary responsibility for diagnosis, treatment selection, and supervision of the process. They verify the presence of live insects, obtain an appropriate medicated shampoo or lotion, and follow the product’s instructions precisely. After application, they wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to eliminate dormant eggs. Parents also schedule a follow‑up inspection to confirm eradication.

Siblings require immediate examination. If infestation is confirmed, they receive the same treatment as the index case. If they remain clear, preventive measures—such as avoiding head‑to‑head contact and not sharing combs or hats—are reinforced.

Grandparents or other caretakers provide logistical support. Their tasks include preparing clean laundry, disinfecting household surfaces, and assisting with the meticulous combing of hair using a fine‑toothed nit comb. They also monitor the child’s comfort during treatment, reporting any adverse reactions to the primary caregiver.

A concise checklist for each family member:

Parent/guardian – confirm infestation, select and apply treatment, launder items, arrange follow‑up.
Sibling – inspect promptly, repeat treatment if needed, enforce avoidance of shared personal items.
Caretaker – handle laundry and environmental cleaning, assist with nit combing, observe for side effects.

Successful resolution depends on consistent execution of these tasks and a second‑inspection after seven days to ensure all nits have been removed.

School and Daycare Policies

When a child is found to have head‑lice, schools and day‑care centers follow established protocols to limit spread while maintaining attendance.

Parents or guardians must inform the institution promptly. Notification typically includes the date of detection, the treatment method used, and confirmation that the child has completed the full course of therapy.

Institutions often enforce a temporary exclusion period. Common criteria are:

Absence from group activities until treatment is finished and the child is lice‑free.
Presentation of a written clearance note from a health professional confirming successful treatment.
Allowance for return after a specified number of days without additional symptoms, provided that the child’s hair has been inspected.

Staff members conduct a visual inspection of the affected child’s hair and scalp. Documentation of the inspection, including the date, inspector’s name, and findings, is recorded in the child’s health file. This record supports consistent monitoring and informs future prevention efforts.

Preventive measures comprise regular educational sessions for families, distribution of informational flyers, and routine checks during high‑risk periods such as early autumn. Facilities may also implement policies on personal items, requiring that hats, scarves, and hair accessories be kept separate to reduce transmission risk.

Compliance with these policies ensures a coordinated response, minimizes disruption to learning, and protects the health of all participants.

Regular Checks and Monitoring

Weekly Hair Examinations

Weekly hair examinations provide a systematic approach to detecting head lice at the earliest stage. Conducting a visual and tactile inspection each week limits the opportunity for a small infestation to expand.

Part the hair in sections of 2‑3 cm.
Use a fine‑tooth lice comb on wet hair, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends.
Examine the nape of the neck, behind the ears, and the crown region.
Look for live insects, nits attached within 1 mm of the scalp, or any redness and itching.

Early identification enables prompt treatment, reduces the number of required applications of pediculicide, and lowers the likelihood of transmission to close contacts. Consistent weekly checks also create a documented pattern that can be referenced if an outbreak occurs.

Maintain a simple log noting the date of each examination and any findings. Review the record regularly to confirm the absence of lice or to assess the effectiveness of any interventions applied. «Regular inspection reduces infestation risk».

Early Detection Strategies

Early detection limits the spread of head‑lice infestations and facilitates timely treatment. Prompt identification prevents secondary outbreaks in schools, families, and community groups.

Conduct systematic visual checks of the scalp, concentrating on the nape, behind the ears, and hairline. Look for live insects and oval, brownish eggs attached to hair shafts.
Apply a fine‑toothed lice comb to damp hair. Comb from root to tip in sections, cleaning the comb after each pass to capture any captured specimens.
Implement routine screening schedules in environments where close contact is common, such as classrooms or sports teams. Record findings to track prevalence.
Observe for persistent itching, especially after bathing, and for small, white specks that do not easily brush away.
Seek professional confirmation from a medical practitioner when visual evidence is ambiguous. Laboratory identification validates the presence of lice and informs appropriate medication choices.

When to Seek Professional Help

Treatment Failure

Persistent Infestation after Multiple Treatments

Persistent lice infestation after several applications of over‑the‑counter products signals a need for reassessment. Resistance to common pediculicides, incomplete coverage, or rapid reinfestation from untreated contacts often underlies treatment failure.

First, verify the presence of live lice and viable eggs with a fine‑tooth comb on dry hair. If live insects are confirmed, shift to a prescription‑strength agent such as a topical ivermectin or a benzyl‑phenyl‑acetate formulation, applied according to the manufacturer’s schedule. Ensure the entire scalp, including the nape and behind the ears, receives adequate exposure.

Key actions:

- Apply the prescribed medication exactly as directed; avoid shortcuts in contact time.
- Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs.
- Wash bedding, hats, scarves, and hair‑care accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture; discard or treat hair brushes and combs with alcohol.
- Inspect all household members; treat anyone harboring lice simultaneously to prevent cross‑contamination.

After the second application, conduct a follow‑up inspection within 48 hours. Absence of live lice confirms eradication; any remaining insects require a third‑line option, such as oral ivermectin under medical supervision. Document each step, maintain a treatment log, and consult a healthcare professional if infestation persists beyond three cycles.

Skin Infections

Scratching-Induced Sores and Rashes

Scratching lice bites frequently creates open sores and inflamed rashes that can become infected. Continuous irritation disrupts the skin barrier, allowing bacteria to enter and prolonging discomfort. Prompt attention to these lesions reduces the risk of secondary infection and supports faster recovery.

Clean the affected area with mild antiseptic soap and lukewarm water; pat dry with a clean towel.
Apply a topical antibiotic ointment to any visible break in the skin, following the product’s instructions.
Use an over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone cream to lessen inflammation and itching, limiting use to the recommended duration.
Keep fingernails trimmed short and consider wearing gloves during sleep to prevent accidental scratching.
Replace pillowcases, hats, and bedding with freshly laundered, high‑temperature washed items; store them in sealed bags for at least 48 hours to eliminate lingering parasites.

If redness expands, pus appears, or fever develops, seek medical evaluation promptly. Professional assessment may include prescription antibiotics or alternative treatments to address both the lice infestation and the resulting skin lesions.

Allergic Reactions to Treatments

Severe Irritation or Swelling

Severe irritation or swelling indicates that the scalp’s reaction to infestation exceeds normal discomfort. Persistent redness, intense itching, or localized edema suggests secondary infection or allergic response to lice saliva. Immediate actions include:

Cleaning the affected area with a gentle, antiseptic cleanser to reduce bacterial load.
Applying a topical corticosteroid, such as hydrocortisone 1 %, to alleviate inflammation, following product instructions.
Consulting a healthcare professional promptly for prescription‑strength treatment or evaluation of possible infection.

If swelling spreads, fever develops, or the child exhibits signs of systemic illness, emergency medical assessment is required. Continuous monitoring of symptoms ensures timely escalation of care and prevents complications.