What Are Lice? How to recognize and treat them.

Lice are tiny, parasitic insects that feed on human blood. These ectoparasites are mainly found on the scalp but can also appear on eyebrows and eyelashes. There are three main types of lice that affect humans:

• Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis): The most common and easily transmissible.

• Body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis): Associated with poor hygiene conditions.

• Pubic lice (Pthirus pubis): Also known as crabs.

  
  

  Lice do not transmit serious diseases but cause discomfort due to the itching and irritation they provoke.

How Are Lice Transmitted?

Lice spread primarily through direct head-to-head contact. This occurs most frequently among children due to their close interactions in settings such as schools or parks. Additionally, lice can spread through personal items such as shared combs, hats, pillows, or headphones, contaminated surfaces like sofas or beds where an infested person recently lay, and prolonged physical contact, including hugs or play that involves close proximity.

Symptoms of Lice Infestation

Detecting lice is essential to prevent their spread. The main symptoms include:

• Intense itching: Caused by lice saliva during feeding.

• Redness and irritation: Especially on the scalp.

• Small white or brown dots: Representing nits (eggs) or adult lice visible near the hair roots.

• Difficulty sleeping: Lice are more active at night.

Risk Factors for Contracting Lice

Although anyone can get lice, certain factors increase the risk of infestation:

• Children aged 3 to 12 years: They are the most affected group.

• Crowded environments: Daycares, schools, or camps.

• Long hair: Facilitates lice movement.

• Sharing personal items: Such as combs or towels.

 

How to Prevent Lice

Preventing lice requires attention to certain hygiene and prevention practices. Effective strategies include avoiding sharing personal items like hats, pillows, or headphones, keeping hair tied back, especially in high-risk environments, regularly checking hair, particularly in children, and cleaning objects and surfaces such as combs, bedding, and furniture that may have been in contact with infested individuals.

 

Treatments to Eliminate Lice

There are various options for treating lice, including both pharmaceutical and natural remedies. The most common treatments include:

• Lice shampoos and lotions: Formulated to kill lice and nits. Carefully follow the product instructions.

• Fine-tooth combs: Effective for removing nits after treatment.

• Home remedies: Such as diluted vinegar or essential oils, though their effectiveness is less scientifically proven.

 

Comparison of Available Treatments

Type of Treatment	Advantages	Disadvantages
Lice shampoo	High efficacy and easy application	May cause skin irritation
Fine-tooth combs	Affordable and free of side effects	Requires time and patience
Home remedies	Natural and accessible	Variable efficiency

When to Consult a Doctor

Although lice do not pose a serious health risk, there are situations where medical help is necessary:

• If over-the-counter treatments fail after several weeks.

• If there are signs of scalp infection, such as severe redness or pus.

• If the infestation spreads to the eyebrows or eyelashes.

Conclusion

Lice are a common but treatable nuisance that affects people of all ages, especially children. Understanding what lice are, how they spread, and how to prevent them is essential for controlling their transmission. By following preventive strategies and using appropriate treatments, it is possible to effectively eliminate lice and avoid future infestations.

At The Lice Clinic, we provide professional care to resolve your lice problems efficiently. Book your appointment today and say goodbye to lice in just a few hours!