How can you find out if a person has lice? - briefly
Inspect the scalp and hair with a fine-toothed comb, looking for live insects or tiny, oval nits attached close to the skin. Presence of these visual signs confirms an infestation.
How can you find out if a person has lice? - in detail
To determine whether an individual is infested with head lice, follow a systematic visual and tactile examination.
First, inspect the scalp and hair in a well‑lit area. Part the hair close to the scalp in several sections, moving from the front hairline to the nape. Look for live insects, which are grayish‑brown and about the size of a sesame seed, as well as for translucent nymphs. Also examine the hair shafts for tiny white or yellowish eggs (nits) attached at a 45‑degree angle to the strand; they are firmly cemented and do not slide easily.
Second, use a fine‑toothed lice comb. Place a dampened comb on a section of hair, starting at the scalp, and pull it down slowly. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or rinse it in water to reveal any captured lice or nits. Repeat the process across the entire head. A single comb pass that yields several live insects or multiple nits confirms infestation.
Third, assess secondary signs. Persistent itching, especially after a few days of exposure, may indicate a reaction to lice bites. Observe for small red bumps or excoriations on the scalp and neck. While itching alone is not definitive, it supports the diagnosis when combined with direct evidence.
Fourth, consider a professional evaluation. Dermatologists, pediatricians, or trained school health personnel can perform a more thorough examination using magnification tools. Laboratory confirmation is rarely required but may be requested in ambiguous cases.
Finally, document findings. Record the location and number of live lice and nits, the severity of itching, and any previous treatment attempts. This information guides appropriate therapeutic measures and helps monitor treatment effectiveness.