Self-Care Guidelines
The following self-care measures may be helpful if you think you have head lice:
- Search for lice and nits on wet hair using a fine-toothed comb (louse comb). Examine the scalp in strong light, using a magnifying glass if necessary.
- Use an over-the-counter medication for head lice exactly as directed. These medicines are insecticides and should not be applied in greater quantity or more frequently than recommended. These medications are not recommended for children younger than 2 years old.
- Wash household items such as bed linens, towels, and hats in hot water, and dry them using the hot cycle for at least 20 minutes.
- Wash any object that the infected child has come into contact with in the past 48 hours in hot water for at least 5 minutes.
- Seal potentially contaminated but non-washable objects in plastic bags for 2 weeks. (The lice will die within 2 days, and the nits will hatch and die within 2 weeks.)
- Vacuum floors and furniture used.
- Do not share combs, hair brushes, hats, towels, bedding, clothing, headphones, stuffed toys, or other personal items with someone who has head lice.
When to Seek Medical Care
See your doctor if self-care measures have not successfully killed off (eradicated) the lice infestation. Also call the doctor if you see any signs of bacterial infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or pus, particularly in areas where you may have been scratching the skin. Additionally, call the doctor before using any louse medicines if you are pregnant.
Signs and Symptoms
