Do Head Lice Go Into Ears?

One question that many people have is, “Do head lice go into ears?” This is a common misconception, but this is not the case. Once infected, head lice can travel anywhere on the head. However, in some cases, they can also enter the auditory canal. When this happens, the bugs can cause infection and even rupture the eardrum.

Head lice are tiny, wingless insects that live in human hair. While they are primarily found around the scalp, they can also be found in eyebrows and eyelashes. They are highly contagious and can easily spread to other family members. These critters can also affect other members of the household, so it is important to treat them immediately.

Once an infestation has been confirmed, you can expect to experience itching. Intense scratching can also lead to secondary bacterial infections. However, it is important to note that itching may not occur for four or six weeks after the first discovery. Lice are often small and do not prefer light, so you may not feel any discomfort right away.

The best way to prevent the spread of head lice is to avoid head-to-head contact. This means washing your hair regularly and avoiding sharing personal items with other household members. Also, avoid sharing stuffed animals or hats with children. Personal items should be washed in hot water and dried on the hot cycle in the dryer. If you cannot wash the items, you should place them in a plastic bag and keep them away from children for two weeks. Taking care of hair brushes is also important.