How can I find out if I have lice? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair, especially behind the ears and at the neck, for live insects and nits attached within a millimeter of the skin. Run a fine‑tooth comb through wet hair and check the comb for any lice or eggs.
How can I find out if I have lice? - in detail
To determine whether a person is hosting head‑lice, begin with a thorough visual inspection. Part the hair in small sections, pulling it away from the scalp with a fine‑tooth comb or a bright flashlight. Look for live insects, which are about the size of a sesame seed and move quickly, and for oval, yellow‑brown eggs (nits) firmly attached to the hair shaft within a half‑inch of the scalp.
Key locations for inspection include:
- The nape of the neck and behind the ears, where lice favor warm, sheltered areas.
- The crown and sideburns, especially in children with short hair.
- The hairline and any dense patches, using a systematic grid pattern to avoid missed spots.
If live insects are not immediately visible, examine the hair for nits. Distinguish nits from dandruff by gently trying to slide them off the shaft; viable eggs remain firmly attached. Remove any suspect nits with a fine‑tooth comb, then re‑examine the area to confirm the presence of live lice.
Symptoms that may accompany an infestation include:
- Persistent itching, caused by an allergic reaction to lice saliva.
- Small red bumps or a rash on the scalp.
- A feeling of movement in the hair, especially when the head is brushed.
When uncertainty remains after self‑examination, seek professional evaluation. Dermatologists or trained school nurses can use a magnifying device to confirm the diagnosis. Laboratory analysis of a sample under a microscope provides definitive identification, distinguishing lice from other parasites or debris.
If lice are confirmed, immediate treatment involves:
- Applying an approved pediculicide according to the product’s instructions.
- Repeating the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched insects.
- Performing a second thorough combing session 2–3 days after treatment to remove remaining nits.
- Washing bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) or sealing them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
Regular follow‑up inspections at 48‑hour intervals for two weeks ensure that the infestation has been fully eradicated. If symptoms persist despite treatment, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies or to rule out secondary skin conditions.