What are the symptoms of having lice? - briefly
Typical signs include intense scalp itching, especially behind the ears and at the nape, and the visible presence of live insects or their nits attached to hair shafts. Additional clues are red bite marks, a sore scalp, and a tickling sensation caused by the parasites moving.
What are the symptoms of having lice? - in detail
Lice infestations manifest through several observable signs. The most reliable indicator is the presence of live insects or their eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts, especially near the scalp. Nits appear as tiny, oval, white or yellowish specks that are firmly glued to each strand; they do not slide easily when the hair is combed.
Additional symptoms include:
- Persistent itching, caused by an allergic reaction to lice saliva.
- Irritation or redness of the scalp, sometimes accompanied by small sores from scratching.
- A sensation of movement on the scalp, described by some as “crawling” feeling.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck area, reflecting an immune response to the infestation.
- Secondary bacterial infection of the scalp, indicated by pus, crusting, or foul odor.
In severe cases, children may experience difficulty concentrating or disrupted sleep due to discomfort. Early detection relies on thorough visual inspection of the hair, using a fine-toothed comb under good lighting.