Headlice: A Not Uncommon Childhood Issue
Headlice is a rather common problem, especially among children who are in frequent close contact, like daycare centers or elementary schools. Lice live not only on the scalp, but can also travel to other hair on the head, including facial hair and eyebrows. Lice in hair other than the head are either pubic lice or body lice.
Contrary to popular belief, headlice do not fly (they have no wings) and they cannot jump. They crawl from one location to the next, and the females lay eggs called nits. A female louse can lay 50 to 100 nits before dying. The nits are attached to the hairs using a sticky substance, making them difficult to remove manually from the hair shaft. Once the nit is left by the female louse, it takes about 10 days to mature to an adult.
Once a child's headlice problem is noticed, usually by a teacher or school nurse, the first thing that comes to the mind of most parents is how to get rid of head lice. Any local pharmacy can provide several lice shampoo products. The pharmacist can help you with other products such as lice combs, besides shampoo products. There are also herbal treatments available such as tea tree oil or coconut oil, which some would like to try out.
It's also important to treat the areas your child is in most frequently, such as his or her bedroom, living room, and other play areas. Vacuum daily to remove any loose lice or nits. Wash all soft items (clothing, stuffed animals, and bedding) in hot water and dry on the hottest cycle.
Preventing lice is sometimes a losing battle, but teaching good hygiene is extremely important. Teaching children not to share items such as hats, helmets, or hooded clothing is essential. Also wiping off things such as headphones is helpful. Check your child for signs of head lice. Signs include repeated itching or scratching of the scalp and white spots that will not come off with a comb.
Once you are sure that your child has head lice, notify the school nurse and your child's teachers immediately. This way, you may be able to stop the infested child from spreading lice to other children; your child will probably need to stay out of school until it is clear that your child no longer has any lice or nits in his or her hair. Call your school for exact requirements.
Headlice is a really tough thing for any family to deal with. Many people are confused with how to get rid of head lice. One of the most popular and successful ways to get rid of it is with lice shampoo. Other people may stick to more of an old wives tale approach, but modern shampoos made for lice are the most appropriate. Every family has dealt with lice or a similar scare at some point in time. It is a risk we take when we deal with other people and share hats or other such items.
Published August 23rd, 2007
Filed in Health
