Head lice are small, parasitic insects that infest hair on the head of people, and feed on blood from the scalp. Their six legs allow them to grasp and wander between hairs. Below you may find medications used to treat or help with Head Lice. More about Head Lice

Pediculosis Capitis FAQ


What are head lice?

Head lice are small, wingless insects that infest the human scalp and feed on blood.

What are the symptoms of head lice?

Common symptoms include itching, tickling feeling, irritability, and sores on the scalp. Nits (lice eggs) may also be visible.

How are head lice spread?

Head lice are usually spread through head-to-head contact. This can occur during play, sleepovers, or other activities involving close contact.

Can head lice infest other parts of the body?

While head lice typically infest the scalp, in rare cases, they can be found in eyebrow, eyelash, or beard hair.

How can head lice infestation be treated?

Treatment usually involves using medicated shampoos, lotions, or mousses specifically designed to kill lice.

Should the whole family be treated if one member has head lice?

It's recommended to check all family members for lice and nits. Treat only those who have evidence of an infestation.

How long do head lice live?

Adult head lice can survive on a human host for about 30 days. They can also live for up to 2 days without a host.

Can head lice infestation be prevented?

Avoiding head-to-head contact, not sharing items that come into contact with the head, such as combs or hats, and regularly checking for lice can help prevent infestations.

How often should head checks be performed?

Routine head checks for lice should be done once a week, especially for children in school or daycare settings.

Are over-the-counter treatments effective for head lice?

Many over-the-counter head lice treatments are effective, but it's important to use them correctly and follow the instructions carefully.

Can head lice infestations be resistant to treatment?

Yes, there have been reported cases of head lice developing resistance to certain treatments. Consulting a healthcare professional for guidance is important if standard treatments fail.

Can pets spread head lice?

No, head lice are specific to humans and cannot be spread by or to pets.

What should be done with items used by a person with head lice?

Wash and dry items such as bedding, clothing, and personal care items in hot water and a high heat drying cycle to kill lice and nits.

Can swimming or bathing eliminate head lice?

Head lice can survive underwater for several hours, making them difficult to drown. Wet combing with a fine-toothed comb can be more effective in removing lice and nits.

Can head lice transmit diseases?

No, head lice do not spread diseases. They are merely a nuisance and do not cause serious medical conditions. However, excessive scratching can lead to skin infections.

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Information provided by Dr. Tekeste Etay Teka. Reviewed by Dr. Mohamed El Khouly