| ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX |
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Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test |
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
Head lice |
| Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention |
| Alternative Names: |
| Lice - head; Nits; Pediculosis capitis - head lice |
| Treatment: |
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Lotions and shampoos containing permethrin are usually effective. They are available over-the-counter. If these do not work, other products are available by prescription. The medications used for lice are insecticides. Therefore, they should be used exactly as directed and no more frequently than recommended. Certain products loosen the bond between the egg sack (nit) and hair shaft so that eggs can be easily removed. Remove the eggs with a nit comb. Removing eggs may prevent reinfection if the medication fails to kill all of them. Treat children and adults with lice promptly and thoroughly. Wash all clothes and bed linens. This also helps prevent head lice from spreading to others. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
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Lice are usually killed with proper treatment. However, reinfestation is possible, especially if the source of the infestation is not corrected (for example, a classroom with many infected children). |
| Complications: |
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Some people will develop a secondary skin infection from scratching. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
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First, apply home treatment. Call your health-care provider if symptoms continue after home treatment, or if you develop an irritation from the medicine. |
Head lice |
Lice, head - nits in the hair with close-up |
Head louse emerging from egg |
Head louse, male |
Head louse - female |
Head louse infestation - scalp |
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