The Head Lice FAQ

Head lice have become a common phenomenon in the United States. The majority of victims affected by head lice are school children. Extra care should be taken when the person infected by head lice is a small child. Here is a 'stop head lice' FAQ, which will help you get rid of head lice.

• 1. What is the minimum period for the head lice symptoms to start?
  It usually takes about two to three weeks for the person to detect the presence of head lice in their scalps and the symptoms to start.
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  2. What are the most common head lice symptoms?
  The first symptom of head lice is the continuous itching in your scalp at the back of your head and around the ears. If you experience a constant itching on your scalp, you must check for the presence of head lice or nits (lice eggs). Since lice are tiny and it is difficult to spot them, it will be better if you check your hair in broad daylight.
  3. How do lice spread?
  Head lice spread mainly when a person comes in direct contact with another person who has a lice infestation. It can also spread when you share towels, hats, combs or helmets of a person who have lice. Head lice also spread if you share a pillow or bed sheet while sleeping close to a person with lice infestation.
  4. Can head lice spread diseases?
  Unlike popular beliefs, head lice are not dangerous and do not spread diseases. However, head lice are highly contagious and their presence in your scalp can cause persistent itching. Itching leads to scratching of the head and rigorous scratching can lead to skin infection and bleeding of the scalp.
  5. How can a person prevent a head lice infestation?
  The best way to prevent someone from getting a life infestation is to avoid sharing clothes, hats, helmets, hairbrushes or combs with a person who is infected with head lice. Generally, kids are more prone to get head lice infestation from others. You must educate your children not to share thing with others.
  6. Are lice susceptible to heat?
  Yes, lice are very vulnerable to heat. Lice despise dry heat. You can get rid of lice by putting your hats, towels and clothes in a hot dryer for about 20 minutes before using it. The heat could kill the lice and the lice eggs (nits).
  7. What all are the products can be used to treat child with lice infestation?

There are many over-the-counter drugs available in the market. However, most of the drugs contain chemical ingredients and can cause harm to your child's scalp. It is better to use natural products like apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, olive oil or green tea oil treatments. The natural remedies don't cause any side effects and help you get rid of lice quickly. Avoid buying a head lice treatment that is not recognized by the National Pediculosis Association (NPA), as it can lead to serious consequences for your child's head or scalp.

About the Author
Chris Davis is a head lice expert. For more great information on head lice, visit http://www.licehair.com.