Posted on March 3, 2009 in latest news
Head lice are common in kids of ages between 3 to 12 years, especially girls. Head lice cause itchiness of the scalp, and excessive scratching can result in bacterial infection. Hence, it is important for parents to recognize and treat head lice in their kids are early as possible
What are Head Lice?
Head lice are tiny insects, which live on the scalp and feed on the blood. Adult lice lay eggs or nits, close to the skin surface. Nits look like yellow, brown dots and they hatch after 1 to 2 weeks to produce baby lice or nymps. After 1 to 2 weeks nymphs become adult lice
Why are Kids Vulnerable to Head Lice:
Lice cannot fly, but they crawl and cling firmly to hair. Kids tend to have close physical contact and share things. Hence, lice can easily be transfered from head-to-head contact or by sharing things. Kids can get lice from school, daycare center, camps etc.
Symptoms of Head Lice Infestation:
When the lice bite, it results in itchiness and your kids may start scratching their scalp. They may even complain of things things moving in their head. Excesssive scratching may result in red bumps, sores and a bacterial infection.
Head lice can be found by parting your kid’s hair into sections and checking for lice. You can also check for lice behind the ears, at the neck etc.
How to Treat Head Lice:
Here are a few tips for head lice treatment:
- Over-the-counter creams and lotions: There are many over-the-counter creams and lotions available which can remove the lice and the nits. This treatment is not suitable for kids below 2 years. Make sure you follow the treatment instructions carefully as these contain insecticides. You may have to repeat the treatment after 7 days to completely get rid of the lice
- Fine-toothed comb: Wet your child’s hair initially to immobilize the lice. Use a fine-toothed comb to remove the lice from your kid’s hair
- Wash: Wash the clothing, bed linens at 130 degree Fahrenheit to kill the lice and avoid further infestation. Also soak the brushes, combs in hot water.
Make sure you kid does not share things such as combs, hats, ribbons with other kids. If the problem is persistent contact you pediatrician who would be able to give a stronger shampoo/lotion to get rid of the lice.
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