In getting rid of lice in children, watch out for the first signs of an infestation. An adult louse is usually tan or a grayish white and is approximately the size of a sesame seed. Lice eggs, known as nits, have a brown, tan, or yellowish appearance and are extremely tiny. However, they can be seen with the naked eye. Lice typically lay these eggs close to the scalp, on hair shafts.
Although treating a case of head lice is relatively simple, it requires some amount of tenacity. There are many over-the-counter-medicated shampoos, lotions and creams for kids available at most drug stores. Ask your physician for a recommendation, or for a prescription medication. Most medicated treatments attack the lice and nits and do little to nothing for the itching. Itching typically subsides within a few days.
Since these treatments are essentially pesticides and contain harsh chemicals, it is extremely important to use the product responsibly and in a safe manner. Pay close attention to the directions and use only as instructed. Using the product excessively on a child's hair can lead to harmful side affects. Keep in mind that a treatment or product may not completely rid the scalp of lice and nits. This may be because the lice have become resistant to that medicine. After completing the treatment, it is advisable to comb through the hair with a fine-toothed comb regularly for a few days to get rid of remaining lice and nits.
Preventative measures should be taken after successful treatment. Be sure to wash all clothing and linens in hot water (130 F). Items that cannot be machine-washed, such as plush toys and stuffed animals, should be stored in airtight bags for about 2 weeks. Thoroughly clean hair brushes, combs, hair ties, etc., in medicated shampoo or by rubbing alcohol for about an hour. This is a very effective way to get rid of licepermanently.
To control the spread of lice, it is recommended, especially for children, to avoid sharing hair brushes and other accessories with their classmates. They should also avoid close contact with their classmate's scalp and hair (head-to-head contact). Every few days, it is a good idea to look through the scalp and hair of all family members if a family member has been in close contact with someone who has recently had lice.
Do you have bed bugs? Can you kill lice with Lysol? For more information on common pests and parasites, check out our site.
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