Head Lice Prevention and Diagnosis
The technical term for head lice infestations is Pediculosis.
Over the last 5 to 10 years, head lice infestations have increased dramatically in many regions of the world because lice have evolved widespread genetic resistance to the pesticides found in traditional over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Signs and Symptoms
The following are often symptoms of lice:
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Feeling as though something is moving in the hair - note lice are most active in the dark
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Itching caused by an allergic reaction to the bites of the lice – note that much of the population are not allergic and will not experience itching
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Sores on the head caused by scratching the bites
Detection and Diagnosis:
Head lice and eggs are found almost exclusively on human head hair and the scalp; frequently behind the ears and nape of the neck. In severe cases head lice can also be found on the eyelashes or eyebrows, but this is uncommon.
A head lice infestation is diagnosed by actually seeing the live lice in the hair or finding lice eggs (nits) near the scalp. Head lice are small, move quickly, and avoid light, so finding one may be difficult. Nits, which are about the size of a period (.), are usually more abundant than adults or nymph lice. Nits that are found within a quarter inch of the scalp are usually a pretty good indication of a lice infestation.
Use a thin comb to move through sections of the hair, especially around the back of the neck and ears. Look for signs right next to the scalp. People often mistake dandruff as nits. How can you tell the difference between the two? Nits are glued to the hair shaft and won’t move easily, but dandruff can easily slide along the hair shafts.
Prevention
A common misconception about head lice, is that they are a sign of poor hygiene. Unfortunately lice seem to prefer clean environments, but that’s no reason to stop washing your hair.
Head lice are most often spread by direct head to head contact. Two ways to prevent lice are to avoid touching heads with others who have lice, and tying long hair back in a ponytail.
Cleaning the House After
The easiest way to clean the house is to just leave the house for a few days. Lice can’t survive for more than two days off their host. When you come back the only lice that will be alive are the ones that you bring with you. The same principle applies to schools, if everyone leaves for the weekend; the only lice that will be present on Monday are the lice that children bring back with them.
For most people the more practical solution is cleaning the house.
The following are suggestions for cleaning the house:
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Throw pillows, stuffed animals etc. into the dryer for 20-30 minutes at the highest heat or seal them in a plastic bags for 48 hours.
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Wash sheets and pillowcases and use the high heat drying cycle for 20 to 30 minutes. Boil hair ties and hair brushes for 10 to 20 minutes or freeze them in a plastic bag overnight. We do not recommend that you use pesticide sprays in your home; they will unnecessarily expose your household to harmful chemicals.
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Vacuum rugs, carpets, car seats and furniture (including mattresses) – throw used vacuum bag in outside garbage
Avoid re-infestation
Chances are high that your child either
got lice or has even spread lice to close family or friends. Check
everyone in your immediate household for lice, and inform close friends
and family, to also check for lice. You goal is to stop a re-infestation
and checking all members in your household and informing family and
friends can help prevent a re-infestation.
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