Why Hair Lice Aren't Nice

It's not nice to have lice. Although these insects are too tiny to be seen, they can cause intense itching and red, scaly rashes on the skin.

The medical term for head lice is pediculosis capitis - a problem which was recognized since biblical times. In Exodus 8:17, Aaron supposedly waved his magic rod and turned dust into lice. This major infestation was found in both men and beasts "throughout, all the land of Egypt."

With the help of modern medicine, such infestations are rare nowadays but they still happen, especially in school-age children.

Lice are six-legged creatures that live exclusively in humans. While they commonly occur in the absence of sanitary conditions, they can affect anyone regardless of social status. Rich or poor, clean or not, lice infestation knows no limits.

“Lice can be passed easily from one person to another (for example by using the comb or wearing the hat of an infected person). Head lice live on or close to the scalp, where they bite and suck blood," according to the editors of Consumer Guide's Family Health & Medical Guide.

What sort of trouble can you expect from head lice? First, there’s intense itching. Scratching the area won't help; it may cause sores on the scalp and promote infection. In some, the lymph nodes at the base of the skull may be enlarged.

It's impossible to see head lice unless your whole head has been colonized. The most obvious signs are the milky-white eggs attached to the hair shaft. These eggs look like dandruff flakes but are difficult to remove.

"Although nits (eggs) are about the same color and size as flakes of dandruff, they can be easily distinguished from dandruff: flakes of dandruff can be blown or brushed away; nits can be removed with the fingernails only with difficulty," said the editors of Consumer Guide's Family Health & Medical Guide.

To get rid of head lice, you need more than just a comb. The first step is to see a reliable dermatologist who can prescribe a good medicated shampoo or lotion. Over-the-counter products can also be purchased if you know what to buy.

"Both prescription and non-prescription medicated shampoos (called pediculicides) are used to combat lice infestations. It is important to remember that these substances can be poisonous if swallowed or absorbed through the skin or if they come with contact with the eyes. Care must be taken to use them exactly as directed and neither more nor less often than recommended, especially in pregnant women and young children. Sometimes a vinegar rinse is recommended to loosen the nits after using the special shampoo. The nits can then be removed with a fine tooth comb," Consumer's Guide said.

If one family member has lice, the rest of the gang should be treated as well. To prevent reinfestation, wash combs, towels, or hair brushes in hot, soapy water and don't share them with anyone afterwards. The same goes with pillow cases, hats, and clothes. Ignoring these measures could give head lice a chance to strike again. And unlike love, another bout of head lice isn't lovelier the second time around.

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