What are the first signs that you have lice? - briefly
Typical early indicators include an itchy scalp that worsens after washing or heat exposure, and the presence of small white nits attached firmly to hair shafts near the scalp. A quick visual inspection may also reveal live lice moving quickly through the hair.
What are the first signs that you have lice? - in detail
Lice infestations usually become apparent through a combination of sensory and visual cues. The earliest indicator is a persistent, localized itching on the scalp, often intensifying after a few days as the insects feed. This itch results from an allergic reaction to lice saliva and may be mistaken for dandruff or dry skin, but it typically does not respond to ordinary anti‑dandruff treatments.
A second clue appears when small, translucent or white specks are observed near the hair roots. These are nits—lice eggs that have been cemented to the shaft. Nits are firmly attached; they do not slide easily when the hair is brushed. Their length ranges from 1 mm (early stage) to 5 mm (mature). A careful parting of the hair, especially behind the ears and at the nape of the neck, often reveals clusters of these oval shells.
The third early sign is the occasional sight of live lice. Adult lice are about the size of a sesame seed, gray‑brown, and move quickly through the hair. They tend to avoid bright light, so they are most often seen when the scalp is examined in low lighting or after a wash when the hair is damp.
Additional, less specific observations may accompany the primary symptoms:
- Tickling or crawling sensation on the scalp.
- Red, irritated patches where lice have bitten.
- Small amounts of blood or dark specks (crushed nits) on pillows, hats, or clothing.
Prompt detection relies on systematic inspection: part the hair in multiple sections, use a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair, and examine the comb for attached nits or insects after each pass. Early recognition of these signs enables immediate treatment and prevents the spread to others.