How do lice affect a person? - briefly
Head lice feed on blood, causing intense itching and skin irritation; scratching may produce sores and secondary bacterial infection. Their presence also creates psychological discomfort and social stigma.
How do lice affect a person? - in detail
Lice are external parasites that inhabit the human scalp and feed on small quantities of blood. Their attachment to hair shafts creates a constant source of irritation, which quickly becomes noticeable.
Physical reactions include intense pruritus, erythema, and the formation of small papules at attachment sites. Repeated scratching can breach the epidermis, allowing opportunistic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus to colonize the wound and produce secondary infections. In severe infestations, especially among children, chronic blood loss may lead to mild anemia, reflected by reduced hemoglobin levels and fatigue.
Psychological impact manifests as heightened self‑consciousness, reduced confidence, and avoidance of social interactions. Stigma associated with visible nits often results in school or workplace absenteeism, which can affect academic performance and productivity.
Risk of transmission rises in environments where close head‑to‑head contact occurs: schools, daycare centers, sports teams, and shared sleeping arrangements. Factors that increase susceptibility include crowded living conditions, inadequate personal hygiene, and limited access to effective treatment.
Management strategies comprise several approaches:
- Manual removal of nits using a fine‑toothed comb, repeated at three‑day intervals to capture newly hatched nymphs.
- Topical pediculicides containing dimethicone or pyrethrin, applied according to manufacturer instructions; resistance to older compounds like permethrin is increasingly documented.
- Oral ivermectin for refractory cases, prescribed after evaluation of contraindications.
- Environmental measures: laundering bedding and clothing at ≥ 60 °C, vacuuming upholstery, and avoiding the exchange of personal items such as hats or hair accessories.
Monitoring after treatment is essential; the presence of live lice or viable nits within a week indicates treatment failure and necessitates a repeat regimen. Comprehensive care addresses both the biological infestation and the accompanying psychosocial distress, thereby restoring comfort and normal daily functioning.