What are head lice?
The head louse, or Pediculus human capitis, is a parasitic insect that can be found on the head of human beings. Head lice feed on human blood several times a day and need to live close to the scalp to maintain their body temperature.
Head Lice Life Cycle
The life cycle of the head louse has three stages: nit, nymph, and adult. The life cycle of a single louse from egg to mature adult capable of laying eggs or reproducing is about 21 days.
Nits/Eggs:
Head lice eggs are called nits. Nits are laid by the adult female louse and are attached to the base of the hair shaft by a strong cement like adhesive. They are located close to the scalp because they require body heat for incubation.
Size - 0.8mm by 0.3mm
Shape - Oval
Color …show more content…
The adult louse can survive for up to 1-2 days without feeding on the scalp; therefore lice can be found on objects that have been in contact with an infested person.
Why Other Lice Treatments and Shampoos Don't Work
RID and other lice shampoos only kill adult lice and adolescent nymphs. These shampoos work by attacking the bug's central nervous system. Because baby lice or "nyphms" have not yet developed a central nervous system, they cannot be killed by pesticides.
Lice Symptoms & Diagnosis
Common Symptoms of Lice
Scalp itching
Sensation of something moving in the hair
Red or pustular sores on the scalp caused by scratching
Swollen lymph nodes in the front and back of the neck
Detection and Diagnosis of Lice
Head lice and eggs are found almost exclusively on human head hair and the scalp, frequently around and behind the ears and near the neckline at the back of the head. Misdiagnosis of head lice is common.
The best way to confirm an active case of head lice is by finding a live nymph or adult louse on the scalp or hair. Adult and nymphal lice are very small, move quickly, and avoid light, so they may be difficult to find. Using a fine toothed louse comb helps in correctly diagnosing head
The head louse, or Pediculus human capitis, is a parasitic insect that can be found on the head of human beings. Head lice feed on human blood several times a day and need to live close to the scalp to maintain their body temperature.
Head Lice Life Cycle
The life cycle of the head louse has three stages: nit, nymph, and adult. The life cycle of a single louse from egg to mature adult capable of laying eggs or reproducing is about 21 days.
Nits/Eggs:
Head lice eggs are called nits. Nits are laid by the adult female louse and are attached to the base of the hair shaft by a strong cement like adhesive. They are located close to the scalp because they require body heat for incubation.
Size - 0.8mm by 0.3mm
Shape - Oval
Color …show more content…
The adult louse can survive for up to 1-2 days without feeding on the scalp; therefore lice can be found on objects that have been in contact with an infested person.
Why Other Lice Treatments and Shampoos Don't Work
RID and other lice shampoos only kill adult lice and adolescent nymphs. These shampoos work by attacking the bug's central nervous system. Because baby lice or "nyphms" have not yet developed a central nervous system, they cannot be killed by pesticides.
Lice Symptoms & Diagnosis
Common Symptoms of Lice
Scalp itching
Sensation of something moving in the hair
Red or pustular sores on the scalp caused by scratching
Swollen lymph nodes in the front and back of the neck
Detection and Diagnosis of Lice
Head lice and eggs are found almost exclusively on human head hair and the scalp, frequently around and behind the ears and near the neckline at the back of the head. Misdiagnosis of head lice is common.
The best way to confirm an active case of head lice is by finding a live nymph or adult louse on the scalp or hair. Adult and nymphal lice are very small, move quickly, and avoid light, so they may be difficult to find. Using a fine toothed louse comb helps in correctly diagnosing head