Head Lice

Question 1

Symptoms?

Answer 1

Itching of head / scalp

Tickling sensation from hair movement

Louse eggs (ova): Oval shaped, dandruff-like and translucent

Nits (empty louse egg shells): White specs that remain attached to hair rather than scalp

Nymph: pinhead size, pearly white baby lice

Adult head lice / Louse: tan to grey in colour, six legs (hook-like claws), size of a sesame seed.

Question 2

Questions?

Answer 2

Have they noticed any lice in their hair?

How long have the symptoms/lice been present for?

Does anything make them feel better or worse?

Is there anyone they might have exposed to lice?

Have they tried any medication or interventions to treat the lice?

Are they on any other medications including vitamins and supplements?

Question 3

Red flags?

Answer 3

Raised temperature and feeling unwell - could be in additional to a bacterial infection so patient should be referred to a healthcare professional in case they require antibiotic treatment

If over the counter treatments are not successful in relieving symptoms or removing the lice, it may be advised to see the GP so that they can prescribe a cream, lotion or shampoo to treat the head lice

Question 4

Treatment?

Answer 4

Dimeticone - Hedrin 4% lotion or spray:
Not for children under 6 months.
This is a physical insecticide.

OR

Malathion liquid (Derbac-M) 0.5% 
This is a chemical insecticide

Question 4

Treatment?

Answer 4

Dimeticone - Hedrin lotion/spray 4% :
Not for children under 6 months.
This is a physical insecticide.

Malathion liquid (Derbac-M) 0.5%
This is a chemical insecticide
Not for children under 6 months.
Not recommended for use in patients with asthma or eczema, or with scabies or crab lice; do not use lotion more than once in 3 consecutive weeks