How can you find out if there are lice in the head? - briefly
Inspect the scalp and hair for live insects about the size of sesame seeds and for oval, whitish eggs («nits») attached near the roots. Run a fine‑toothed comb through wet, conditioned hair to collect any specimens for definitive identification.
How can you find out if there are lice in the head? - in detail
Detecting a head‑lice infestation requires systematic visual inspection and tactile assessment.
Begin with a thorough examination of the scalp and hair. Separate strands with a fine‑toothed comb, preferably a lice comb, moving from the scalp outward. Conduct the process on a well‑lit surface; natural daylight or a bright lamp reduces missed organisms.
Key indicators include:
- Live insects, approximately 2–4 mm in length, resembling tiny brown or gray beetles.
- Nits attached firmly to hair shafts within ¼ inch of the scalp; they appear as oval, white or yellowish specks.
- Scratching accompanied by redness or small sores, suggesting irritation.
- Presence of brownish or black specks that move when the hair is gently brushed, indicating live lice.
To confirm, follow these steps:
- Place a section of hair on a white background; examine under magnification if available.
- Use a fine‑toothed comb, running it from the root to the tip in small increments.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a tissue; inspect for live insects or nits.
- Repeat the process on all sections, including the nape, behind the ears, and the crown, where lice commonly congregate.
If live lice are observed, the infestation is established. If only nits are found, verify attachment by gently pulling; firmly attached nits indicate recent oviposition, while loosely attached ones may be shed shells.
Additional confirmation methods:
- Transparent adhesive tape applied to a small scalp area, then examined under a magnifying lens; lice will cling to the sticky surface.
- Use of a handheld microscope (minimum 40× magnification) to identify characteristic body shape and movement.
Consistent inspection over several days improves detection accuracy, as newly hatched lice become visible within 5–7 days after egg laying. Regular checks are essential for early identification and effective treatment.