How can I tell if I have lice on my head? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair under bright light, searching for tiny, moving insects the size of a sesame seed and for oval, white or yellowish nits attached within a quarter‑inch of the skin. Persistent itching or a tickling sensation usually indicates an infestation.
How can I tell if I have lice on my head? - in detail
To identify an infestation, examine the scalp and hair closely. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on a well‑lit surface, preferably over a white towel or sheet, and pull the comb through small sections from the roots to the tips. After each pass, inspect the comb for live insects, dead bodies, or oval, translucent eggs attached to hair shafts near the scalp.
Key indicators include:
- Persistent itching, especially behind the ears and at the nape of the neck, caused by an allergic reaction to saliva.
- Visible nits that appear as tiny, white or yellowish specks cemented at a 45‑degree angle to the hair strand; they are difficult to detach.
- Live lice, about the size of a sesame seed, moving quickly across the scalp or clinging to the hair.
- Small red bumps or sores resulting from bites, often found in clusters.
A systematic search should cover the entire head, paying special attention to the crown, parting lines, and behind the ears. Conduct the inspection in a warm room, as lice are more active at body temperature. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for a week, because newly hatched lice may be missed during the first examination.
If any of the above signs are observed, confirm the presence by capturing a specimen with a tissue or by photographing it for professional evaluation. Early detection allows prompt treatment and prevents spread to others.