Can Head Lice Wake You Up?

Head lice are tiny parasitic insects that live on human heads. They are two to three millimeters long and feed on human blood. They are not intelligent, but they are capable of crawling and can be spread from person to person through prolonged head-to-head contact. They can also be spread through hair brushes and clothing.

Treatment for head lice requires a thorough cleaning of the affected area. The infested area should be disinfected and washed with hot water and then sealed for two weeks. To kill stray lice, make sure to wash all bedding and personal items used by the infested person. Also, clean any combs that have come into contact with the infested person’s hair.

While head lice can be embarrassing, it’s not a health threat. Most children don’t get head lice unless they have close contact with a fellow child with lice. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends treatment when exposure to lice occurs after bed-sharing. Proper treatment will kill the lice and nits, and will leave your child lice-free.

If you suspect your child has head lice, make sure to check their heads regularly and contact their school. Different school districts have different policies when it comes to lice, so it’s important to follow these guidelines.