Lice
Lice are parasitic insects that feed on blood and can live in peoples heads and on their bodies, including in the pubic area. Head lice often are a concern for parents of young children. Lice crawl, not hop or fly, and are spread commonly through head-to-head contact. A child with lice will experience itching, difficulty sleeping, and sores on the head. The child also might feel like something is moving in his hair. Prescription and over-the-counter shampoos, plus a special comb with tight teeth, work best to kill lice and remove their eggs, called nits.
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- Q When should I call my doctor if I have lice?
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If you suspect lice infestation (pediculosis), you can try an over-the-counter lice medicine or visit your doctor to double-check your symptoms. Call a doctor if: You have severe nighttime itching that does not go away after a few days. You see live... Full Answer
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- Q How can I help prevent lice?
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Head lice are easily spread among children because kids commonly share hats, combs and other items. If you or your child has head lice, you can help prevent others from getting it if you avoid head-to-head (hair-to-hair) contact during activities inside... Full Answer
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- Q What should I think about if I have a visual exam for head lice?
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People who have pubic lice are strongly encouraged to seek testing for other sexually transmitted infections. Full Answer
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- Q What is a visual exam for head lice?
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During a visual exam for head lice, the hair on the head is parted with the fingers so that the scalp can be seen. You or the doctor uses a louse comb and looks for tiny live lice [about 3 mm (0.12 in.) to 4 mm (0.16 in.) long, or the size of a sesame... Full Answer
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- Q What are lice?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyThere are three types of lice, depending on where they are found on the body. Learn more on this topic in this video of Dr. Oz. Full Answer
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- Q How should my child be treated for head lice?
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Your child’s doctor will talk with you about specific care for your child. Some general guidelines to follow include: Hair does not need to be shaved. NEVER use kerosene, matches or other harmful products to kill lice. Shampoo or rinse your... Full Answer
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- Q What is the best lice treatment for my hair?
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In addition to cleaning sheets in hot water and a hot dryer along with a good vacuuming, certain shampoos are the best lice treatments for your hair. “These cleansers either use an enzyme that breaks down the glue that the lice use to hold... Full Answer
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- Q What are the symptoms of head lice infestation in children?
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Lice are small, wingless, gray-tan insects. Head lice only live on humans, and anyone can get them, even with good health habits and hair washing. Head lice can be spread from one person to another by close contact or by sharing personal items. Lice... Full Answer
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- Q How are pubic lice transmitted?
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Dr. Jill Grimes, Family MedicineCrabs are transmitted most often through intercourse but also by direct contact with infected bed linens, clothing, or towels. People trying on bathing suits at stores without wearing underwear can transmit or pick up pubic lice. Full Answer
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- Q How are body lice diagnosed?
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You can diagnose body lice simply by looking at your skin, clothing, and linens. If you see lice or eggs, then you are infested and should seek treatment. Your doctor will be able to diagnose body lice through a physical exam and you should not need any... Full Answer
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