Overview
Head lice are tiny insects that live in the hair and feed on the scalp, causing itching. They are extremely common in school children and spread through direct head-to-head contact and shared combs, and have nothing to do with cleanliness. They cannot fly or jump. Treatment with medicated lotions and careful combing out of the eggs (nits) clears them, and treating close contacts at the same time stops them coming straight back.
Symptoms
- Itching of the scalp, especially behind the ears and at the nape
- A tickling feeling of movement in the hair
- Tiny eggs (nits) glued to the hair near the scalp
- Live lice seen on the scalp or comb
- Sores from scratching in heavy infestations
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or pharmacist for the right lotion if combing alone does not clear them; treat affected family members together.
Causes
Head lice spread by direct head-to-head contact and, less often, by sharing combs, brushes, hats and pillows, common among school children.