How to check for lice in adults? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair closely—particularly the nape, behind the ears, and hairline—for live insects and attached eggs. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair, run it from root to tip, and inspect the comb for any nits or adult lice.
How to check for lice in adults? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice infestations in grown‑up individuals requires systematic visual inspection and careful handling of personal items.
The examination should begin with a well‑lit environment; natural daylight or a bright lamp reduces the chance of missing small insects. Use a fine‑tooth comb (preferably a lice comb with 0.2‑mm spacing) on dry hair first, then repeat on damp hair to improve grip. Separate sections of the scalp with clips or hair ties, starting at the nape and moving forward.
Key signs to look for:
- Live insects, typically 2–4 mm in length, with a grayish‑brown body and six legs.
- Nits (lice eggs) attached firmly to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp; they appear as tiny, oval, yellow‑white or brownish specks.
- Brown or black fecal spots on hair shafts or shoulders, indicating recent feeding.
- Scalp irritation, itching, or redness, especially after a few days of exposure.
A step‑by‑step protocol:
- Part hair into small sections (approximately 1‑inch width).
- Run the lice comb from the scalp outward, covering the entire length of each strand.
- Inspect the comb after each pass; place any captured insects or nits on a white surface for easier identification.
- Repeat the process on all sections, re‑wetting hair if necessary to improve comb efficiency.
- After the inspection, wash the comb in hot, soapy water and dry thoroughly.
Additional measures:
- Examine personal items that contact the scalp: hats, scarves, hair accessories, pillowcases, and bedding.
- Use a magnifying glass (10×) when reviewing collected specimens to confirm species.
- Conduct a follow‑up inspection 7–10 days after the initial check, as newly hatched lice may emerge from missed nits.
If live lice or viable nits are confirmed, professional treatment options include topical pediculicides, oral medications, or mechanical removal methods. Documentation of findings (photographs or written records) assists healthcare providers in selecting appropriate therapy.
Regular self‑examination, especially after known exposure (e.g., close contact with infested individuals), remains the most reliable preventive strategy.