Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Head lice are tiny insects that live close to the scalp, where they lay and attach their eggs (nits). Lice can't survive unless they are close to the scalp. Head lice are most common in children. They can spread anytime a child's head comes into contact with the head or hair of someone who has lice. Lice can't fly or jump. Head lice aren't dangerous. They don't spread disease or have anything to do with how clean someone is. Head lice may cause an itchy feeling on the scalp. This is because of your body's reaction to the lice bites. But not everyone has itching, and not all itching means you have lice. Lice can be on the scalp for 4 to 6 weeks before itching starts. You can check for head lice at home. Use a fine-toothed comb. Part small sections of hair in a place with good light. Using a magnifying glass can help. You can also check with a doctor, who will ask about symptoms and check the scalp and hair for lice and nits. There are several over-the-counter medicines that kill lice. Most of them are creams or shampoos that you put on the scalp. There are also prescription medicines. Each type of medicine is a little different, so it's important to follow the directions carefully. Your doctor or pharmacist can answer any questions you may have. Current as of: March 21, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Next Section: Previous Section: Current as of: March 21, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Head Lice
Condition Basics
What are head lice?
What are the symptoms?
How are they diagnosed?
How are head lice treated?
How can you care for yourself at home?
How can you prevent head lice?
Credits
Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: March 21, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.Head Lice