How to detect lice in a child? - briefly
Inspect the scalp and hair using a fine‑tooth comb, searching for live insects or nits cemented within 1/4 inch of the skin, especially behind the ears, at the nape, and on the crown. Confirm any findings by gently pulling out suspected lice for visual verification.
How to detect lice in a child? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice infestation in a youngster requires systematic examination and awareness of subtle signs. Begin with a thorough visual scan of the scalp, focusing on areas where lice and nits most often reside: the nape of the neck, behind the ears, and the crown. Use bright, natural light or a well‑lit room to enhance visibility.
A fine‑tooth comb, preferably a louse‑comb with 0.2 mm spacing, is essential for reliable detection. Follow these steps:
- Dampen the hair with water or a light conditioner to reduce slip.
- Place the comb at the scalp, pull gently toward the hair tip.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or paper towel.
- Examine the tissue for live insects (mobile, grayish‑brown) or nits (oval, yellow‑white, firmly attached to the hair shaft within 1 cm of the scalp).
Repeat the process on each section of hair, ensuring no area is missed. Nits that are firmly glued to the shaft and not easily dislodged are diagnostic; loose shells or debris are not sufficient evidence.
Additional indicators include:
- Persistent itching, especially after a few days, caused by an allergic reaction to lice saliva.
- Redness or small sores on the scalp resulting from scratching.
- Presence of small, translucent eggs on hair strands, often mistaken for dandruff.
For increased accuracy, conduct the inspection on a flat surface with the child’s head tilted back. Perform the check twice a week for at least two weeks, as nits may hatch after the initial examination.
If live lice or viable nits are found, document the location and quantity, then proceed with appropriate treatment and repeat combing after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched insects. If no evidence appears after multiple thorough examinations, consider alternative causes of scalp irritation.