Can Head Lice Cause Illness?

There are many ways to deal with head lice, and it is important to get rid of the infestation as soon as possible. The best way to do this is to wash all clothes and bedding in hot water, dry them thoroughly, and place them in a plastic bag. You can also check your child regularly for lice. If your child is constantly scratching or itching, this could be a sign that he or she has head lice. It is also important to avoid swimming as it can reduce the effectiveness of the head lice medicine.

Although head lice do not transmit any illnesses, they can cause serious skin problems and hair loss. If left untreated, they can lead to infection of the scalp. This can be aggravated by excessive scratching. The follicles in the scalp can also become blocked, leading to hair loss and unconditioned hair.

Traditionally, kids with head lice were kept home from school, but doctors no longer recommend this practice. However, if your child was close to someone who had head lice, he or she should stay home and get treatment. It is also best to avoid head-to-head contact with people with lice. Instead, long hair should be kept up in a bun, braid, or ponytail to minimize the risk of the lice spreading.

While some treatments are available over the counter, you should also consult a doctor for more aggressive treatments. The CDC is an excellent source of information about lice and the prevention of it. Their website allows you to sign up for updates for conditions like lice.