Head lice is an uncomfortable and highly spreadable condition in which small lice infest the hair and can even begin to lay eggs. The best way to deal with lice is to catch it early, before it spreads and before the eggs are laid. Look for common signs of head lice in your children so that you can deal with the problem quickly.
Itchy Scalp
The first and most recognizable sign of head lice is an itchy scalp. When feeding, lice inject a saliva in the scalp that can lead to an itchy, red rash. Although you might not be able to see the rash, you can definitely see the telltale head scratching throughout the day. Itchy spots tend to be behind the ears and at the nape of the neck.
Adult Lice
When someone has lice, you may actually be able to see the adult lice in the hair. They can be hard to find in darker hair, as they are black in color. Although most are tiny, they can grow to be about 1/8 inch long. They tend to grip to the hair shaft and can be most often located behind the ears and at the nape of the neck.
Nits
Nits are the eggs that adult lice lay. These small, white eggs grip to the hair shaft and will not come out with regular brushing and combing. In fact, the eggs are so tiny that they may look like dandruff to some.
Dirty Pillow
One lesser known sign of head lice is a dirtier than usual pillow. Many pillows get dirty due to sweat or body soil, but if you notice that a pillow has become significantly dirtier in a short amount of time, it could be because of lice droppings.
Tags: adult lice, behind ears, behind ears nape, deal with, ears nape, ears nape neck, grip hair