Scalp Itchy? You May Have Lice
If your scalp is itchy all the time, this can be caused by many things. One common reason for this is head lice. Below is information about head lice, as well as how you can get these insects off your scalp.
Head Lice
Head lice are insects that can be found on the scalp, eyelashes, and eyebrows. Once they get on their host they feed on their blood throughout the day. Head lice are more common in children but if they have it and bring it home, it can spread to other family members.
Head lice cannot fly or hop from one person to another. Instead, lice are spread through contact, such as by wearing the same hat, coat, scarves, etc. You may use the person's hairbrush or a comb. If you take a shower in the same bathroom and use their towel, you can get head lice.
Head lice start out as eggs, which is known as a nit, then turns into a nymph, and then an adult. Nits are sticky and stick on your hair strands. Once the nits hatch, which takes a few days, it does not take long for them to become an adult. An adult louse can live 30 days before they die. Because the adults lay eggs in these 30 days, you will still have lice.
If you have head lice, you may feel like something is crawling around on your hair and have intense itching. This can make it difficult to sleep and you can get sores on your scalp from itching.
Remove Head Lice
Purchase over-the-counter shampoo that is made to kill head lice and follow the instructions on how to use it. This kit will come with a nit comb. You must go through your hair thoroughly to remove all the nits. When you are finished, check your hair again to ensure all nits are gone. You will need to have someone do this for you. The shampoo will kill nymphs and adult fleas on your scalp, but it will not kill and remove the nits.
You need to remove everything your head touched from your home and/or wash everything. This includes hairbrushes, pillows, sheets, blankets, and more. If your child had lice and they have stuffed animals, place these animals in a garbage bag and tightly seal it. Place the bag outside on a sunny day for a few hours. Wash sheets and blankets on the hottest setting you can.
Visit your doctor if your scalp continues to feel itchy. You may have an infection and need an antibiotic or special shampoo. For more information on lice removal, contact a professional near you.