How can you tell if there are lice? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair for tiny, moving insects and for oval, white or brown eggs that are firmly attached within a quarter‑inch of the scalp. Persistent itching, redness, or a sensation of movement in the hair also signals an infestation.
How can you tell if there are lice? - in detail
Detecting a head‑lice infestation requires systematic visual examination and attention to specific symptoms. Begin by separating the hair into small sections, preferably using a fine‑toothed comb or a lice detection comb. Pull each section away from the scalp and inspect the hair shaft and base for live insects, which appear as grayish‑white, wingless bodies about the size of a sesame seed. Look also for intact or empty egg shells—nits—attached firmly to the hair shaft within a half‑inch of the scalp; a loose nit can be brushed off easily, while a firmly attached one indicates an active infestation.
Key indicators include:
- Persistent itching, especially around the ears, neck, and scalp.
- Small red bumps or sores caused by bites.
- Presence of live lice or nits when hair is examined under bright light.
- Visible crawling insects on the scalp or in the hair.
When using a detection comb, follow these steps:
- Dampen the hair with water or a light conditioner to reduce static.
- Start at the scalp, draw the comb through a section of hair toward the ends.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or rinse it in a bowl of water to reveal any captured lice or nits.
- Repeat the process for the entire head, ensuring no area is missed.
If any lice or viable nits are found, the infestation is confirmed. Absence of visible insects does not rule out a developing problem; repeat the examination after 24‑48 hours, as newly hatched lice may be too small to detect initially. Regular checks, especially after known exposure, provide the most reliable method for early identification.