When facing head lice, there are often many questions: Do I have head lice? Does my child have head lice? What are the symptoms of lice? How can I be sure it is actually lice?
Some of the symptoms of head lice can be obvious. Itching on the scalp is one of the first signs many people experience. Lice are parasites that feed on human blood. The act of the lice feeding on the scalp causes itching.
Another sign of head lice is red patches near the neck or on the scalp. These red patches come from a reaction to the lice itself and also from the itching. Other signs include small, black, gray, or white bugs found in the hair. These parasites are tiny and very fast. They are often found near the root or the hair shaft. They can often be found in the hair near the neck or behind the ears.
Lastly, small eggs can be found attached to the hair shaft near the root of the hair. These appear white, black, gray or sometimes clear. An egg is difficult to remove and must be pulled off intentionally. It cannot be blown off or dusted off. Sometimes dandruff is mistaken for head lice or nits. The easiest way to determine whether it is lice or dandruff is to lightly blow on the white patch found in the hair. If a white patch falls off when air blows the patch, it is likely dandruff and not a nit. If it does not fall off when air blows the patch, it is likely a nit.
Symptoms of Head Lice:
1. Itchy Scalp
2. Red patches on the neck or scalp
3. Small, tiny bugs found near the hair shaft (typically gray, black or white)
4. Small eggs attached to the hair shaft
If you or a family member are concerned about head lice, the quickest and easiest way to determine whether it is lice, is to visit a professional lice clinic. For Professional Lice Treatment in Birmingham, Alabama please visit Precision Lice Clinic for a professional, clean, and precise treatment. Precision Lice Clinic is now serving Birmingham, Vestavia Hills, Homewood, Mountain Brook, Shelby County, Hoover, and all surrounding Birmingham suburbs.
