Pediatric Lice Signs - How to Recognize Lice in Children

Posted: Aug 19, 2010 |Comments: 0 |

Recognizing pediatric lice signs early is crucial. A lice infestation is also known as Pediculosis capitis. This occurs when tiny pests, called head lice, live on a human scalp and hair. This infestation may happen to anyone, regardless of race, social status and age. Often times, girls with long hair, aged 3 to 12, are the ones that are affected the most.

Itching is one of the most common lice signs in a child. Your child may also feel a ticklish, or crawling, sensation on his/her head. Live lice can be seen crawling. Eggs, or nits, can be seen stuck to the hair of your child close to the scalp. You might also see red bite marks, sores, swelling or dark specks on the scalp. These can usually be found on the hair near the neck or behind the ears.

A lice infestation can be diagnosed by doing a careful examination and inspection on the hair and scalp of your child. The presence of live lice is already a sign that your child is infested. A fine-toothed lice comb can be used to get rid of lice and nits. This should especially be done if your child has long, thick hair.

Once you have confirmed that your child is infested with lice, you need to do the following:

· Opt for a natural head lice treatment as soon as you notice that your child is showing lice signs, or once it has been confirmed by your pediatrician. · Prevent your child from scratching his/her head. As much as possible, trim the fingernails of your child. Or, have your child use mittens or gloves if the itching is severe. · Avoid shaving the hair of your child. · Avoid using bleach, kerosene, acetone or other flammable chemicals to eliminate the lice. You should also avoid using treatments on your child that are meant for pets.

To prevent lice infestations, here are some things that you can do:

· Teach your child not to share his/her personal stuff with others and avoid head to head contact with other kids. · As much as possible, disinfect any hair accessories and bed sheets. · If your child happens to be showing lice signs, be sure to check the rest of the family, as well, and provide the same treatments to eliminate all lice.

Although head lice do not actually carry any fatal diseases, scratching may cause secondary infections. This may cause the scalp of your child to bleed or swell. It might also cause a lot of embarrassment, or social shame, in kids. When treating a lice infestation, be sure to avoid using chemical treatments. These can have bad side effects and make your child sick and can cause mild to severe burning of the scalp, nervousness, seizures and irritability. So, you need to be very careful when treating a pediatric lice infestation. If you see lice signs and are worried about the condition of your child, it is best to ask your pediatrician for advice.

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