How to Check Yourself for Lice

Lice infestations are not only highly contagious but can also be a frustrating problem to deal with. These tiny parasites feed on human blood, and the only way to get rid of them is through treatment. But before you can treat them, you need to identify whether you have lice or not. If you suspect you have lice, checking yourself is the first step in getting rid of them. Here’s a detailed guide on how to check yourself for lice.

The Different Types of Lice Infestations

Lice infestation is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. There are three types of lice infestations, and they all feed on human blood. They include:

Head Lice

Head lice are the most common type of lice infestation, and they are usually found in the hair on the head. They are tiny, about the size of a sesame seed, and grayish-brown in color. They feed on human blood by biting the scalp and can cause intense itching.

Body Lice

Body lice are usually found in the seams of clothing, and they only come to the body to feed. They are slightly larger than head lice, about the size of a sesame seed or smaller. Body lice infestations are more common in people who do not have access to clean clothes or regular bathing.

Pubic Lice

Pubic lice are also known as crabs because they have crab-like claws that help them attach to pubic hair. They are usually spread through sexual contact and can also infest other hairy areas of the body, such as the armpits, eyebrows, or eyelashes.

How to Check for Lice

If you suspect you have lice, the first step is to check for them. Here’s how to check yourself for lice:

Step 1: Examine the Hair

The first thing you need to do is to examine your hair. If you have head lice, you will most likely notice intense itching on the scalp. You may also see small red bumps on the scalp, which are caused by the bites of the lice. Look closely at the hair roots, and you may see lice eggs, also known as nits. They are tiny, oval-shaped, and usually found close to the scalp. If you see small gray or brown insects moving around, you have adult head lice.

Step 2: Examine the Clothing

If you suspect that you have body lice, the next step is to examine your clothing. Look for adult lice or nits in the seams of your clothing. Body lice are usually found in clothing that is worn close to the skin, such as underwear or t-shirts.

Step 3: Examine the Pubic Hair

If you suspect that you have pubic lice, the next step is to examine your pubic hair. Look closely at the roots of the hair for nits or live lice. Pubic lice are usually found in the pubic hair, but they can also infest other parts of the body, such as the armpits, eyebrows, or eyelashes.

Treatment for Lice Infestations

Lice infestations can be treated with over-the-counter products, such as shampoos and lotions that contain permethrin or pyrethrin. These products kill adult lice and nits, but you may need to use them more than once to get rid of all the lice. If over-the-counter products do not work, your doctor may prescribe stronger treatments, such as malathion or lindane.

Things to Remember When Treating Lice Infestations

When treating lice infestations, there are a few things to remember:

– Follow the instructions carefully: Over-the-counter products and prescription treatments come with instructions that you need to follow. Make sure you read and understand them before using the products.

– Wash all clothing and bedding: Lice can survive for up to two days without a host, so make sure you wash all clothing, bedding, and towels that you have used in the past two days.

– Vacuum your home: Vacuum all carpets, sofas, and mattresses to remove any lice or nits that may have fallen off.

– Check all family members: Lice infestations are highly contagious, so make sure you check all family members and close contacts for lice.

– Avoid sharing personal items: Lice can easily spread through personal items such as combs, hairbrushes, hats, and headphones. Avoid sharing these items with others if you have lice or if somebody else is infected.

Lice FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about lice:

Can lice infestations be prevented?

The best way to prevent lice infestations is to avoid close contact with people who have lice. If you have school-aged children, make sure you teach them how to avoid sharing combs, hairbrushes, and other personal items that can spread lice.

Can lice survive on pets?

No, lice cannot survive on pets, as they are adapted to live on human blood. However, animals can still carry other parasites or pests that can bite humans and cause skin irritation.

Can lice infestations be cured with home remedies?

Home remedies such as mayonnaise, olive oil, or tea tree oil have been suggested as alternative treatments for lice infestations, but there is no scientific evidence to support their effectiveness.

Can lice infestations cause serious health problems?

Lice infestations are not known to cause serious health problems, but they can cause intense itching, skin irritation, and social stigma.

How long do lice infestations last?

Lice infestations can last for several weeks, depending on the severity of the infestation and the type of treatment used. It is important to follow the treatment instructions carefully to make sure all the lice and nits are eliminated.

Can lice infestations affect anyone?

Yes, lice infestations can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or social status. However, they are most common in school-aged children and their families.

Can lice infestations be treated without medication?

While over-the-counter and prescription treatments are the most effective way to treat lice infestations, there are some alternative methods, such as combing the hair with a special lice comb or using vinegar to loosen nits, that may help to eliminate lice and nits. However, these methods may take longer and may not be as effective as medication.