Articles


Head Lice: A Contagious But Treatable Infection

by norman horowitz

Head lice is easily transmittable, so it is imperative that you take action to eliminate this problem so that the lice do not infect others. Begin your treatment for head lice by first washing all bedding materials in very hot, soapy water. This includes sheets, blankets, pillowcases, stuffed animals and any other fabric items kept on the bed. Use ammonia or rubbing alcohol to disinfect all items that have been in contact with the head of the person who has lice such as brushes, combs, hair accessories, and hats.

When lice are first discovered on either your head or some one else's you should purchase a lice treatment product at a drug store and use it as product instructions recommend. You should wash and clean your sheets and other household items. Because an adult louse can jump from head to head and quickly spread edges, it is critical to follow these steps immediately.

You can find the appropriate shampoo to use over the counter or through your pharmacist or doctor. While getting rid of lice is fairly easy, it is time consuming and may be very tiring. Usually, head lice will be killed once the shampoo is applied. If, however, you find that it is still around afterward, a repeat treatment is called for.

Head lice can be difficult to get rid of. If you still find nits and/or lice after one week of using the shampoo, continue the shampoo and take further steps. Wash all of your bedding for a second time, and if you have carpets, have them steam cleaned. Persistent head lice infection may require a visit to your doctor, who may prescribe stronger medication or alternative methods for killing the lice both on your head and in your house.

Head lice and other types of lice are a common occurrence in all parts of the world. People who are affected should not be ashamed of their condition. Head lice and body lice are widely recognized. The people at greatest risk of contracting head lice and body lice include children who are in contact with other children, such as in schools.

Lice are not confirmation of poor hygiene, whatever you may have heard or been taught. It is possible for anyone to develop an infestation, and the only sure way to avoid one is constant vigilance. Make sure that members of your family don't share combs or hats, keep their laundry clean, and check for lice frequently.

Head lice can very contagious because an adult louse can jump from one person to another. If you notice an infestation, the first thing to do is wash everything that has come in contact with the affected person""bedding, hair brushes, hats, etc.""in very hot, soapy water and disinfect them with rubbing alcohol. Wash the affected person's hair daily with a lice-killing shampoo. If lice persist after one week, rewash bedding and have carpets steam cleaned. Persistent cases may need medical treatment. Body lice are also a common problem. Avoid infestations by checking for lice frequently, keeping clothes clean, and avoiding sharing anyone's combs or hats.

Published September 2nd, 2007

Filed in Kid