What should I do if I have fleas on my head?

What should I do if I have fleas on my head? - briefly

Use a medicated shampoo with permethrin or pyrethrin, rinse thoroughly, repeat after 7–10 days, and wash all bedding, clothing, and vacuum the environment to remove eggs. If irritation continues, consult a healthcare professional for prescription treatment.

What should I do if I have fleas on my head? - in detail

If you discover fleas on your scalp, act promptly to eliminate the parasites and prevent further spread. Begin by isolating yourself from close contact with others to avoid transferring the insects. Remove any hair accessories, hats, or scarves and place them in a sealed plastic bag for later cleaning.

1. Personal hygiene

   • Wash hair with a medicated shampoo containing pyrethrins, permethrin, or another approved insecticide. Follow the product’s instructions regarding concentration and contact time.
   • Rinse thoroughly and repeat the treatment after 24 hours to target any newly hatched fleas.
   • Comb the hair with a fine-toothed flea comb while it is still damp; clean the comb after each pass by soaking it in hot, soapy water.

2. Clothing and bedding

   • Launder all garments, towels, pillowcases, and bed linens in hot water (minimum 60 °C/140 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting.
   • Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in airtight containers for at least two weeks, a period sufficient for the flea life cycle to expire.

3. Living environment

   • Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and floor cracks thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
   • Apply an appropriate household insecticide spray to carpets, baseboards, and cracks where fleas may hide, following label safety guidelines.
   • Consider professional pest‑control treatment if the infestation persists after initial measures.

4. Medical evaluation

   • Consult a healthcare professional to confirm the diagnosis and obtain prescription‑strength topical or oral treatments if over‑the‑counter options prove ineffective.
   • Report any skin irritation, allergic reaction, or secondary infection promptly; a physician may prescribe antihistamines or antibiotics as needed.

5. Preventive practices

   • Maintain regular hair washing with a mild antiseptic shampoo.
   • Keep personal items separate from pets; if pets are present, treat them with veterinarian‑approved flea control products.
   • Inspect hair and scalp after contact with infested environments, especially in crowded or outdoor settings.

By following these steps systematically, you can eradicate the infestation, reduce the risk of re‑colonization, and protect both personal health and household hygiene.