How do I know if I have head lice?

An infestation of head lice can be a stressful ordeal for any family. Not only do you have to figure out how to get rid of the lice, but first you need to know that your child has them. So, how do you know if you have head lice? Read on for tips on recognizing the symptoms of head lice.

The most common symptom of head lice is itching. If your child complains about an itchy scalp, it's important to check for signs of lice or nits (lice eggs) to know if you have head lice. Use a fine-toothed comb or use your fingers to part the hair and look closely at the scalp - it may help to use a flashlight and a magnifying glass. Look for tiny white dots - these are likely nits or live creatures crawling through the hair. Note: Not everyone experiences itching, and itching may only occur several weeks after the louse has fed on blood.

If you find these signs, it's time to take action. It's important not to only look at your child's scalp; also check other places where your child may have been in contact with someone who has head lice, such as hats, scarves, bedding, brush/combs handles, towels, etc., and wash these items in hot water of at least 60 degrees. You should also vacuum carpets and furniture because head lice can survive up to two days outside their host (humans).

Another way to check for head lice is to use a detection kit, available in many pharmacies or online stores. These kits contain special adhesive strips that detect the presence of live insects/nits that can easily be identified under a microscope or magnifying glass included in the kit. Home detection kits are user-friendly options that do not require the same expertise as manual hair checks by a professional.

Remember, although various treatments are available on the market and online, consult a doctor if symptoms persist despite treatment or recur several times within a few weeks. Taking preventive measures such as maintaining a good hygiene routine will also help protect against future outbreaks, so you no longer have to worry about annoying head lice!