Head lice probably cause more distress than any of the many types of parasites which feed on human ~blood~, and are found on people of all economic and social backgrounds. The most common way of spreading these pests is through sharing combs, brushes, hats and hair accessories, such as barrettes and rubber bands. Infestation of head lice is a common problem among school-age children.
Head lice usually confine their attacks to the hair on people's head. The female louse lays 5-6 eggs daily, attaching them to |hair shafts|. These small white eggs, or "nits" can easily be spotted on close inspection by checking behind |ears| and backs of necks. The baby louse hatches in 8-10 days and matures into an adult within two weeks, starting the cycle over again. Lice are wingless and have legs with claws which they use to anchor themselves to hair while sucking ~blood~. The baby lice and adults feed twice a day leaving small, itchy puncture marks that can lead to irritated, oozing skin.
Several prescription and over-the-counter remedies are available to treat lice infestations. Many of them contain "pyrethrins", which are natural pesticides derived from plants. These products kill lice and nits on contact by destroying their nervous systems and are safe and harmless for humans and pets, if used properly.
After consulting with your doctor or pharmacist for the best treatment plan, remember to use the "delousing agents" exactly as directed. The usual steps are: thoroughly scrub the infected area; apply the medication and leave it on for the recommended amount of time; rinse the area to remove the medicine; when the hair is dry comb out the nits with a nit comb; and repeat the treatment in another week to kill any newly hatched eggs that survived.
It is important to consult your physician or pharmacist before using any over-the-counter drugs or treatments. They will be able to advise you on proper usage and can warn you of possible side effects and contraindications.
