How to relieve itching caused by lice? - briefly
Use a lice‑killing shampoo (e.g., permethrin 1 %) and rinse the scalp thoroughly, then apply a soothing agent such as calamine lotion or a diluted oatmeal wash to calm the skin. Keep the hair dry and repeat the treatment as directed to prevent re‑infestation.
How to relieve itching caused by lice? - in detail
Itching from a lice infestation results from an allergic reaction to saliva injected during feeding. Reducing the sensation requires a combination of pharmacological and hygienic measures.
Topical interventions focus on interrupting the itch‑signal cascade. Antihistamine creams containing diphenhydramine or levocetirizine applied to affected scalp areas diminish mast‑cell degranulation. Corticosteroid lotions such as 1 % hydrocortisone reduce local inflammation when used twice daily for no more than seven days. Non‑steroidal options, for example calamine paste, provide a cooling effect and create a barrier against further irritation.
Systemic relief can be achieved with oral antihistamines. Cetirizine 10 mg or loratadine 10 mg taken once daily alleviate widespread pruritus and improve sleep quality. Analgesic‑antipyretics (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) address secondary discomfort caused by scratching.
Hygiene practices eliminate ongoing exposure to lice and their debris, thereby preventing recurrent itch. Essential steps include:
- Washing hair with a pediculicidal shampoo (e.g., permethrin 1 %) according to label instructions; leave the product on the scalp for the recommended duration before rinsing.
- Scrutinizing the scalp with a fine‑toothed comb after treatment; remove each strand of nits and adult lice, repeating the process every 48 hours for at least three sessions.
- Laundering bedding, clothing, and towels in water ≥ 60 °C; dry‑clean items that cannot withstand high temperatures.
- Vacuuming carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to capture fallen nits; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Avoiding scratching is critical to prevent secondary bacterial infection. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the scalp can reduce friction, while keeping fingernails trimmed limits skin damage.
If pruritus persists beyond a week despite these measures, or if signs of infection (pus, increased redness, fever) appear, seek medical evaluation. Prescription‑strength topical steroids or oral corticosteroids may be warranted under professional supervision. Continuous monitoring ensures that both the infestation and the associated itch are fully resolved.