How to know that lice are in the head? - briefly
Check the scalp for itching, visible crawling insects, or tiny oval eggs (nits) firmly attached to hair shafts close to the skin; these signs confirm an infestation.
How to know that lice are in the head? - in detail
Head lice infestations become apparent through several observable signs. The most reliable indicator is the presence of live insects or their eggs attached to hair shafts close to the scalp. Adult lice are about the size of a sesame seed, grayish‑brown, and move quickly when the hair is disturbed. Nits, which are the eggs, appear as tiny, oval, white or yellowish specks that are firmly cemented to the hair strand; they do not slide easily when the hair is tugged.
A thorough visual inspection should follow these steps:
- Part the hair in small sections, starting at the crown and moving outward.
- Use a fine‑toothed comb, preferably a lice detection comb, to pull hair through while observing the teeth for insects or nits.
- Examine the base of each strand for oval, translucent capsules that are attached within a millimeter of the scalp; this proximity indicates recent laying.
- Look for small reddish or pink spots on the scalp, which may signal scratching or minor irritation caused by bites.
- Notice any persistent itching, especially after a few days, which often accompanies an active infestation.
In addition to visual cues, tactile feedback can help. Running fingers through the hair may reveal a crawling sensation or the feeling of tiny, moving bodies. Moreover, the presence of “blue‑gray” spots on the neck or shoulders can result from lice excrement, providing indirect evidence of an infestation.
If any of these signs are detected, immediate treatment and thorough cleaning of personal items (bedding, hats, brushes) are recommended to prevent spread. Regular checks, performed every few days, are essential because nits hatch within 7‑10 days, and early detection limits the population growth.