How can one tell if they are infected with lice? - briefly
Signs include itching, especially behind the ears or at the nape, and the presence of live lice or oval, yellow‑white nits firmly attached to hair shafts within a centimeter of the scalp. Inspection of the hair with a fine‑toothed comb can reveal these indicators.
How can one tell if they are infected with lice? - in detail
Identifying a head‑lice infestation requires careful visual inspection and awareness of characteristic symptoms. The adult insect measures 2–3 mm, has a grayish‑brown color, and moves quickly through hair shafts. Nymphs are smaller, lighter in color, and less mobile.
Key indicators include:
- Presence of live insects on the scalp or hair strands, especially near the nape of the neck and behind the ears.
- Detection of nits (lice eggs) attached firmly to the base of hair shafts. Nits appear as oval, white or yellowish structures, often resembling dandruff but do not detach easily.
- Observation of translucent, oval-shaped eggs that become darker as embryos develop; mature nits are often situated within ¼ inch of the scalp, where temperature supports hatching.
- Reports of persistent itching, caused by an allergic reaction to lice saliva. Itching typically intensifies several days after infestation begins.
- Irritation or redness of the scalp, sometimes accompanied by small, raised bumps from bite sites.
A systematic examination involves parting the hair in sections of approximately 1 cm, using a fine‑toothed comb or a specialized lice detection comb. The comb should be drawn from the scalp outward, with each pass inspected for insects or nits. Repeating the process on both sides of the head and on the crown increases detection accuracy.
When visual confirmation proves difficult, a secondary method includes collecting shed hairs and examining them under magnification. A magnifying lens or handheld microscope reveals the characteristic shape of nits and the six‑legged body of adult lice.
If any live lice or viable nits are found, the infestation is confirmed, and appropriate treatment should commence promptly.