Are Head Lice Always Itchy?

When someone mentions the word head lice, they immediately think of an itchy scalp. But this is not always the case. In fact, lice can cause a variety of other symptoms, which is why it is important to rule out other causes for the itching. One of the first things to do is check your scalp and hair to make sure they are clean and free of lice.

Head lice are tiny parasites that feed on the blood of human beings. They usually live near the scalp and behind the ears. However, they can also be found in the eyelashes and eyebrows. This can make it difficult to notice the infestation, especially if it is a new occurrence.

Adult lice are grayish-white or tan in color and are about the size of a sesame seed. They feed on human blood from the scalp and develop into adults after a period of nine to twelve days. The life cycle of lice repeats every three weeks. Once attached to the head, adult lice live for about three to four weeks and lay six to 10 eggs a day.

Treatment for head lice is a must if you want your head lice to go away. Many over-the-counter and prescription lice products will do the trick. These products come in the form of shampoos, lotions, cream rinses, and fine-tooth combs. However, these treatments can cause skin irritation so you must use them with extreme caution.