Head lice, scientifically known as Pediculus humanus capitis, are tiny insects that reside in the hair and scalp. These wingless creatures, approximately the size of a pen tip, employ their barbed legs to firmly attach themselves to your hair. On a daily basis, a female louse lays around nine to ten eggs, which she affixes to individual hair strands. Despite their short lifespan of only 28 days, head lice have the ability to multiply rapidly. Due to their highly contagious nature and resilience to extermination, early identification is crucial in minimizing the impact of an infestation.
Why is my Scalp Itching so much?
If you find yourself persistently scratching your scalp, it might be a sign that you have head lice. One of the most common symptoms of head lice infestation is excessive itching. The reason behind this relentless itchiness is an allergic reaction to the bites of these tiny pests.
Head lice survive by feeding on the blood from your scalp. When they bite, they inject saliva into your skin, which can trigger an allergic response in many individuals. Consequently, the more lice bites you receive, the more intense the itching becomes. However, it’s important to note that the itching may not occur immediately after the infestation. In fact, lice can be present on your scalp for up to two to three weeks before the itching becomes unbearable.
Lice Eggs: Identifying and Dealing with a Lice Infestation
Lice eggs, commonly known as nits, serve as a clear indication of lice infesting the scalp. These minuscule, yellow or tan empty shells are comparable in size to a pinhead and are firmly attached to the hair. Although some mistake them for dry skin, the distinction lies in the difficulty of removing these tiny remnants. Unlike dry skin, which easily falls off when the hair is moved, nits require a bit of pressure to be pulled off the hair shaft. It is important to note that the presence of nits in your hair confirms the existence of adult lice, as they prefer the warmth of the scalp.