Itchy Scalp: Is it Lice?
Head Louse 101
Unfortunately, head lice (also known as Pediculus humanus capitis) is a condition that many people at any given time of their life will experience. Head lice is common parasitic infestation of the scalp that occurs after head-to-head contact. The louse itself cannot fly, and it is not able to survive for more than 48 hours without feeding on a human host.
The head louse is usually small, about the size of flake of skin. They feed on blood, and the scalp itching commonly associated with head lice occurs when the head louse bites their host.
Head Lice Treatment
This condition is not particularly serious, and most experts will recommend over-the-counter lice treatment shampoos and lotions for mild to moderate infestations. Examples of common head lice treatments include:
* NIX
* RID
* Lice Sheild
* LiceMD
* LiceFreee!
Additionally, some medical experts advise not resorting to medication at all. At-home treatments include combing through the patient's hair systematically with a special lice and nit comb while the hair is wet or saturated hair conditioner. With this method, the patient or a caretaker helping the patient should systematically part the hair in locks, and run the comb to remove adult lice, nits, and eggs. Patients in areas where pesticide-resistant lice varieties are rampant are encouraged to use the nit comb technique.
However, when over-the-counter lice treatments fail, the patient will need to visit their physician for prescription strength head lice treatment. This may include a strong hair lotion or shampoo. Severe infestations that are nonresponsive to other treatments may even require a pill medication.
If you feel like over-the-counter head lice treatment is not working for you or your child, seek medical advice from your PCP, or urgent care provider over the weekends.
Unfortunately, head lice (also known as Pediculus humanus capitis) is a condition that many people at any given time of their life will experience. Head lice is common parasitic infestation of the scalp that occurs after head-to-head contact. The louse itself cannot fly, and it is not able to survive for more than 48 hours without feeding on a human host.
The head louse is usually small, about the size of flake of skin. They feed on blood, and the scalp itching commonly associated with head lice occurs when the head louse bites their host.
Head Lice Treatment
This condition is not particularly serious, and most experts will recommend over-the-counter lice treatment shampoos and lotions for mild to moderate infestations. Examples of common head lice treatments include:
* NIX
* RID
* Lice Sheild
* LiceMD
* LiceFreee!
Additionally, some medical experts advise not resorting to medication at all. At-home treatments include combing through the patient's hair systematically with a special lice and nit comb while the hair is wet or saturated hair conditioner. With this method, the patient or a caretaker helping the patient should systematically part the hair in locks, and run the comb to remove adult lice, nits, and eggs. Patients in areas where pesticide-resistant lice varieties are rampant are encouraged to use the nit comb technique.
However, when over-the-counter lice treatments fail, the patient will need to visit their physician for prescription strength head lice treatment. This may include a strong hair lotion or shampoo. Severe infestations that are nonresponsive to other treatments may even require a pill medication.
If you feel like over-the-counter head lice treatment is not working for you or your child, seek medical advice from your PCP, or urgent care provider over the weekends.
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