What are lice treated for? - briefly
Lice are treated to eradicate the infestation, relieve itching, and prevent secondary skin infections and further transmission. Effective treatment typically involves topical pediculicides or mechanical removal methods.
What are lice treated for? - in detail
Lice infestations are addressed to eliminate parasites, relieve pruritus, prevent secondary bacterial infections, and reduce the risk of transmission to other individuals.
Effective management combines pharmacological agents, mechanical removal, and environmental measures.
Pharmacological options include:
- Topical pediculicides containing permethrin, pyrethrins, malathion, benzyl alcohol, or spinosad, applied to the scalp or body hair according to product instructions.
- Oral ivermectin, prescribed for resistant cases or when topical treatment is unsuitable.
Mechanical methods consist of:
- Fine‑toothed combs used on damp hair to extract live lice and nits, repeated at 7‑day intervals for at least three sessions.
- Manual removal of body‑lice clothing and bedding after washing at temperatures ≥ 60 °C.
Environmental control measures involve:
- Washing personal items (hats, scarves, towels) in hot water or sealing them in plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuuming upholstered furniture and carpets to capture fallen nits.
Follow‑up assessment is essential; re‑examination after 10‑14 days determines treatment success and identifies any surviving organisms.
Resistance to common pediculicides necessitates rotation of active ingredients and, when required, consultation with a healthcare professional for alternative regimens.
Overall, the therapeutic goal is complete eradication of the ectoparasite, alleviation of discomfort, and interruption of the infestation cycle.