Is it Lice? Signs and Symptoms of Head Lice

Head lice are a common problem in schools, but a big problem nonetheless. That’s why, as the new school season begins, it is important to be aware of the different signs and symptoms of head lice. The intense itching that most people experience with lice can take weeks to develop, which leads to the spread of the problem. The sooner lice can be recognized, the sooner they can be treated, and the lower the possibility of spreading the parasite to others. Here are some signs and symptoms that might help you recognize lice before they can spread.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common symptom of headlice is an itchy scalp, caused by an allergic reaction to the saliva of the head lice. What most people don’t know is that not everyone reacts the same to this saliva, and it can be a while before the skin becomes irritated. Over the course of that time, the lice can infest not only your hair but the hair of those around you.

“Dandruff”

As the case of headlice worsens, some of the lice and their eggs will probably make their way out of your hair and onto the surfaces around you. The appearance of these tiny eggs and bugs takes on that of the white flakes we all know and love, dandruff. The eggs, called nits, are small and white, about the size of a pin head. The lice themselves look like grey dots, about 1 to 3 millimeters. It’s pretty obvious why these are easily mistaken for dandruff, but if you look closely you can see that some of them are moving.

Bumps and rash

Scratching too much can cause a bacterial infection, which results in swollen lymph nodes, and crusty oozing sores around the neckline, temples, behind ears, and the crown of the head. If treatment is delayed, a fever can develop as a result of the infection but can be treated with a course of antibiotics.

A tickly feeling on the scalp

As the lice move around the scalp, it is possible to feel the tiny critters crawling around. It might not feel like much, but it is one of the sure signs that you need to check for lice.

Itching

Sometimes, just the thought of head lice is enough to have you scratching your head, but the itch that is caused by lice is an unmistakable, insatiable itch that continues no matter how much or hard you scratch.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you do not wait to investigate the issue, and the only way to guarantee a lice-free scalp is through professional treatment. Fresh Heads, professional lice treatment center in Jacksonville Florida, Orlando, FL, and Savannah, GA, offers a chemical-free lice removal service, and they are dedicated to stopping lice in their tracks. If you are worried about lice this school season, more information can be found on the Fresh Heads website.

Schools Without Lice

At Fresh Heads Lice Removal, our mission is to get rid of lice in schools across the United States. We’ve partnered with the Lice Clinics of America to create the Schools Without Lice program. Through this program, we provide school nurses and teachers with free screenings, resources, and treatments. Together, we can have schools without lice!