While it sounds unpleasant, bed lice is a fairly common problem, especially among children. It is caused by small insects – lice – that feed on human blood. Although it is not an infectious disease in the traditional sense, it can be very troublesome and cause itching and discomfort.
What is a lice infestation?
Head lice is an infestation of lice on the scalp, clothing or intimate areas. The most common is head lice, which mainly affects preschool and school-aged children. Lice cannot fly or jump, they only move by crawling. They feed on human blood, and their saliva causes an itchy sensation.
How can you get infected with lice?
- Direct contact: The most common route of infection is direct head-to-head contact with an infected person. This can occur while playing, hugging or using the same objects (e.g. hats, brushes).
- Personal items: Lice can survive on personal items such as brushes, combs, hats, towels and bedding. Use of these items by an infested person can lead to transmission of lice to another person.
- Rarer: Head lice can be transmitted through clothing, especially if worn by many people (e.g. in a kindergarten or school).
Lice symptoms
- Itching of the scalp: This is the most common symptom. The itching can be intense, especially at night.
- Visible lice and nits: Lice are small, wingless insects that move quickly. Nits are lice eggs that are glued to the hair.
- Skin irritation: Frequent scratching can lead to skin irritation and even bacterial infections.
Diagnosis
Lice diagnosis involves carefully viewing the hair for the presence of lice and nits. This is best done in good light, using a magnifying glass. Nits are more difficult to remove than adult lice and are often located close to the scalp.
Lice treatment
Lice treatment involves the removal of lice and nits and the use of appropriate insecticides.
- Removal of lice and nits: Comb the hair thoroughly with a special comb to remove both lice and nits. This activity should be repeated regularly for several weeks to ensure that all parasites are removed.
- Insecticides: There are various preparations against lice on the market. Before applying them, read the leaflet carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It is important to repeat the treatment after a few days to kill young lice that hatch from unremoved nits.
Lice prevention
- Checking hair regularly: It’s a good idea to regularly check children’s hair for lice and nits, especially after they return from kindergarten or school.
- Not sharing personal items: Children should not share brushes, combs, hats or other items that can be a source of infection.
- Wash bedding and clothing at high temperatures: Linens and clothing that have been in contact with an infected person should be washed at a temperature of at least 60°C.
- Informing others: If lice occurs in the family, inform the kindergarten, school or other institutions that the child attends.
Lice myths
- Lice are a sign of lack of hygiene: This is not true. Lice can occur in people who take care of their hygiene.
- Lice can jump: Lice cannot jump, they only move by crawling.
- Lice transmit diseases: Lice do not transmit serious diseases.
Summary
The bed bug is a troublesome problem, but fortunately it can be gotten rid of. It is important to recognize the symptoms as soon as possible and apply the appropriate treatment. Checking hair regularly and following hygiene rules can help prevent the spread of lice.
Note:
The above article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for consulting a doctor. Consult your pediatrician or dermatologist if you experience symptoms of lice.
