Head lice is a problem that affects many children, especially those of school age. Although head lice is not dangerous, it can be a nuisance and cause discomfort. In this article, you’ll learn how to identify lice in a child, what nits look like and ways to effectively get rid of these parasites.
What are head lice and what do they look like?
Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) are small, wingless insects that feed on human blood. They are about 2-3 mm long and are grayish-brown in color. Lice live exclusively on the human head, usually around the nape of the neck, behind the ears and on the temples.
How to recognize lice in a child? Lice symptoms
The most common symptom of head lice is ** persistent itching of the scalp**. The child may scratch his or her head, especially around the nape of the neck and behind the ears. Other symptoms include:
- The presence of nits – nits are lice eggs that are stuck to the hair close to the scalp. They look like small, white or yellowish dots, resembling dandruff. Unlike dandruff, nits are difficult to remove from the hair.
- redness and irritation of the scalp – wounds and scabs may appear as a result of scratching.
- enlarged lymph nodes – in some cases, lice can lead to enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
How to find out if a child has lice?
To find out if a child has lice, examine his scalp and hair closely. This is best done in bright light, using a comb with dense teeth.
- Pay attention to the symptoms: itching, scratching the head, the presence of nits.
- Separate the hair into strands: carefully inspect the scalp and hair, strand by strand.
- Use a comb: comb through the hair with a comb with dense teeth, starting at the root of the hair. Check the comb after each combing – if there are lice or nits on the comb, it means the child has lice.
What are the causes of lice?
Head lice are transmitted through direct contact with the hair of an infected person. Children are most often infected at school, kindergarten or on playgrounds, while playing together, hugging or sharing combs, hats or other personal items.
Lice treatment – how to get rid of lice?
Lice treatment involves removing lice and nits from the hair. For this purpose, the following is used:
- Insecticidal preparations: are available at pharmacies without a prescription in the form of shampoos, liquids, creams or sprays. Use them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Mechanical removal of nits: after applying the insecticide, comb the hair thoroughly with a thick comb to remove dead lice and nits.
- Washing and disinfection: wash the child’s bedding, towels, clothes and hats at a minimum temperature of 60 degrees Celsius. Items that cannot be washed should be vacuumed or sealed in a sealed bag for 2 weeks.
Home remedies for lice – are they effective?
There are many home remedies for lice, such as rinses made from vinegar, kerosene or essential oils. However, it should be remembered that their effectiveness is not scientifically proven. They can only support drug treatment.
Lice prevention – how to prevent lice in children?
To prevent lice in your child, it’s a good idea:
- Check the child’s head regularly: especially after returning from kindergarten, school or summer camp.
- Teach the child hygiene: the child should know that combs, hats and other personal items should not be shared.
- tie up long hair: tied up hair is less likely to come into contact with other people’s hair.
- use lice repellents: special preparations in the form of sprays or liquids that repel lice are available in pharmacies.
Lice in a child – the most important information
Head lice is a common problem in children. It is important to recognize head lice quickly and begin treatment. Effective treatment involves the use of insecticides and mechanical removal of nits. Lice prevention includes regularly checking the child’s head, teaching them about hygiene and using lice repellents.
