How can I tell if I have lice or not? - briefly
Check for continuous scalp itching and inspect hair close to the skin for tiny, oval nits firmly glued to the shaft; live lice appear as small, grayish insects that move rapidly. A fine‑tooth comb run on wet hair will reveal any remaining bugs or eggs.
How can I tell if I have lice or not? - in detail
To recognize a head‑lice infestation, examine the scalp and hair closely. Live insects appear as small, tan or grayish bodies about the size of a sesame seed. Nits (lice eggs) are oval, whitish, and firmly attached to hair shafts within a half‑inch of the scalp; they cannot be brushed off easily.
Key indicators include:
- Persistent itching, especially behind the ears and at the nape of the neck, caused by an allergic reaction to saliva.
- The presence of tiny, moving insects on the scalp or near the hairline.
- Visible nits that are stuck at an angle to the hair shaft, often mistaken for dandruff but not removable by shaking the hair.
- Small red bumps or sores from scratching, which may become infected.
A systematic inspection method reduces false negatives:
- Separate a small section of hair near the crown, the typical feeding zone.
- Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair; run the comb from the scalp outward, wiping the teeth after each pass.
- Place a white towel or paper behind the comb to catch any dislodged lice or nits for easier identification.
- Repeat the process on multiple sections, covering the entire scalp, including behind the ears and at the hairline.
If live lice or viable nits are found, the diagnosis is confirmed. When only empty shells or dead insects are present, an infestation may have been treated or resolved, but a follow‑up inspection after 7–10 days is advisable to catch any newly hatched lice.
Professional confirmation can be obtained from a pediatrician, dermatologist, or licensed lice‑removal service. They may use a magnifying lamp or specialized combs to verify the presence of viable eggs and adult insects.
Differentiating lice from other scalp conditions:
- Dandruff flakes are yellowish, easily removable, and not attached to hair shafts.
- Seborrheic dermatitis produces oily, greasy scales that do not cling at an angle.
- Scalp psoriasis yields silvery plaques that are thicker and not associated with itching caused by parasites.
Prompt identification enables timely treatment, reduces spread, and prevents secondary infections from excessive scratching. Regular checks after treatment, typically every 2–3 days for two weeks, ensure complete eradication.