How to tell if a child has lice on the head? - briefly
Look closely at the hair and scalp using a fine-tooth comb, searching for live insects about the size of a sesame seed and tiny, oval eggs (nits) attached near the hair shaft. Persistent itching, especially behind the ears and at the neck, also signals an infestation.
How to tell if a child has lice on the head? - in detail
Detecting a lice infestation on a child’s scalp requires a systematic visual examination and awareness of common symptoms.
First, look for persistent itching, especially after a few days of exposure to other children. Itching results from an allergic reaction to the bite and often intensifies at night.
Second, examine the hair and scalp with a fine-toothed comb. Separate sections of hair, pulling each strand taut while the comb runs from the scalp outward. A bright light or magnifying glass improves visibility.
Key indicators to identify during the combing process include:
- Live insects: small, grayish‑brown, wingless bodies about the size of a sesame seed, moving quickly across the hair shaft.
- Nits (eggs): oval, tan‑to‑white structures firmly attached to the base of a hair strand, within ¼ inch of the scalp. Their shell is hard and cannot be brushed off easily.
- Nymphs: immature lice, smaller than adults but still mobile.
Third, differentiate nits from dandruff or hair products. Dandruff flakes are loose, can be brushed away, and lack a solid attachment. Nits remain fixed to the hair shaft even after vigorous shaking or washing.
Fourth, perform a repeat inspection after 24–48 hours. Early infestations may show few lice; a second check often reveals additional insects as the population expands.
Finally, consider environmental clues: recent contact with other children, shared hats, hair accessories, or school attendance during an outbreak increases the likelihood of infestation.
Combining symptom assessment with thorough combing, repeated checks, and awareness of exposure history provides a reliable method for confirming the presence of head lice on a child.