How Do Head Lice Make You Itch?

Head lice, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of human beings, can make you itch. Initially it may seem like a harmless condition, but the itching can be very uncomfortable and irritant. As a child, my mom told me to avoid scratching as this can cause the louse bite to reopen, become infected, and take longer to heal. Instead, apply a soothing topical solution like witch hazel. This is a natural astringent and helps reduce inflammation.

Lice can cause extreme itching, so it is important to treat the lice quickly. The first step is finding the lice and destroying them. Lice eggs are small, pinhead-sized, and are attached to the hair shaft. The nymphs will hatch after six to nine days. They will then mature and feed on human blood. The adults will live for three to four weeks and lay around six to ten eggs each day.

The first symptom of head lice infection is itching, which can last for up to four weeks after the initial infestation. The itching usually starts one to two days after the lice have been on the hair, but for some, the symptoms may not appear for a week. You may see red bumps on the scalp and small oval nits, which are the eggs of the lice. These nits are not easily shaken off.

If you suspect you might have head lice, it is important to seek medical advice. Treatment for the head lice consists of over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs. However, there are some people who are resistant to these products and can continue to experience itching even after they’ve been treated.