How can you determine the presence of lice yourself? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair closely for live insects and for nits firmly attached to the hair shaft within a quarter‑inch of the skin, noting any itching or irritation. Run a fine‑tooth comb through wet, conditioned hair to dislodge and reveal any lice or eggs.
How can you determine the presence of lice yourself? - in detail
Detecting a head‑lice infestation without professional assistance requires a systematic visual and tactile examination. Begin by separating the hair from the scalp with a fine‑toothed comb, ideally a lice‑comb with 0.2 mm spacing, on a well‑lit surface. Work section by section, starting at the crown and moving toward the hairline, brushing each strand from root to tip. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or towel to expose any captured material.
Key indicators to observe:
- Live lice: grayish‑brown, 2–3 mm long, moving quickly away from light. They may be seen clinging to hair shafts close to the scalp.
- Nits (lice eggs): oval, 0.8 mm long, attached firmly to the hair shaft at a 45‑degree angle. Viable nits are cemented within 1 cm of the scalp; older, empty shells appear translucent and lie farther from the head.
- Itching or tickling sensation: often caused by an allergic reaction to lice saliva. Persistent scalp itch, especially after washing, suggests infestation.
Confirm presence by repeating the combing process for at least three consecutive days. A single negative result does not guarantee absence, because nits may hatch after the initial inspection. Document findings by photographing suspect insects or nits for later comparison.
Additional tips:
- Perform the examination in daylight or under a bright lamp to enhance visibility.
- Use a magnifying glass (10×) for close inspection of hair shafts near the neck and behind the ears.
- Inspect all family members, as lice spread easily through close contact and shared items.
If live lice or viable nits are discovered, initiate treatment promptly and re‑examine after 7–10 days to catch any newly hatched insects. Continuous monitoring for at least four weeks ensures eradication and prevents reinfestation.