How Can Head Lice Harm You?
Lice infestations can be extremely uncomfortable and can disrupt your sleep. They can also damage your scalp and cause a bacterial infection if left untreated. The infestation can be so serious that it can even be life-threatening. Treatment is essential to avoid further problems and to avoid the need for antibiotics.
The best way to prevent lice infestations is to wash your hair and clothes regularly. You should also avoid sharing combs, hats, towels, and other personal items with others. You can also avoid sharing your personal items with other people by washing and drying them in hot water. However, if you must share these items with others, it is best to keep them in a plastic bag for two weeks. In addition, soaking your hairbrush in hot water for two weeks is another effective method to kill lice.
Head lice are small, wingless insects about one-eighth of an inch in size. They feed on human blood from the scalp and are able to live for 30 days on an individual. The adult louse is capable of laying up to six eggs a day. Although head lice cannot be passed between people and pets, they can be transferred through the use of clothing and other personal items. While lice are not dangerous to humans, they can cause severe discomfort and irritation.
There are a number of products available for treating head lice that are safe for your children. A popular topical solution called Spinosad is recommended for children six months and older. While Spinosad is not neurotoxic, it can cause dryness of the scalp and may cause skin irritation. After one treatment, you should check the affected area every seven days to make sure there are no lice present. If it is still full of the insects, you may need to repeat the treatment.