How can you effectively treat pubic lice at home. What are the most reliable over-the-counter treatments for crabs. How long do pubic lice survive on clothing and bedding. What steps should you take to prevent reinfestation after treatment.

Understanding Pubic Lice: Symptoms and Identification

Pubic lice, commonly known as crabs, are tiny parasitic insects that infest the pubic hair area. Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for prompt treatment. Common signs include intense itching in the pubic region, visible lice or eggs on hair shafts, and small blue spots on the skin where lice have bitten.

How can you confirm if you have pubic lice? Careful examination of the pubic area using a magnifying glass can reveal the presence of lice or their eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts. If you’re unsure, consult a healthcare provider for a definitive diagnosis.

Over-the-Counter Treatments: Your First Line of Defense

Fortunately, treating pubic lice doesn’t always require a visit to the doctor. Many effective over-the-counter (OTC) treatments are available at local drugstores. These typically come in various forms, including gels, shampoos, liquids, and foams.

• A-200
• Rid
• Nix

These are some of the common brands you’ll find. When using OTC treatments, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully. In some cases, you may need to repeat the treatment after a specified period to ensure all lice and eggs are eliminated.

Prescription Treatments: When OTC Options Aren’t Enough

In some cases, stronger prescription medications may be necessary. These are particularly important if you have lice in your eyebrows or eyelashes, which require special treatment only available through a healthcare provider. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor before using any lice treatment to ensure safety.

The Myth of Home Remedies: What Really Works?

Many people wonder about home remedies for pubic lice. Can hot baths or shaving eliminate the problem? Unfortunately, these methods are not effective in treating pubic lice. While they might provide temporary relief from itching, they won’t eradicate the infestation.

What about hydrocortisone cream for pubic lice? While it can help soothe itching and discomfort, it’s not a cure. Only medications specifically designed to kill pubic lice will effectively eliminate the infestation. Relying solely on home remedies can worsen the infection and increase the risk of spreading lice to others.

Treatment Protocol: Steps for Effective Elimination

1. Apply the chosen treatment as directed.
2. Remove nits (lice eggs) using fingernails or a fine-toothed comb.
3. Wash all bedding, towels, and recently worn clothing in hot water (at least 130°F).
4. Dry clean items that can’t be washed or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.
5. Vacuum rugs and furniture.
6. Inform sexual partners and recent intimate contacts about potential exposure.
7. Avoid intimate contact until treatment is complete and infestation is gone.
8. Consider getting tested for other STDs.

How long should you wait before repeating treatment? If you still see live lice after 9-10 days, repeat the treatment. Ensure all necessary items have been washed and that sexual partners have also undergone treatment to prevent reinfestation.

Preventing Reinfestation: Key Strategies

Preventing reinfestation is as important as the initial treatment. Here are some crucial steps to take:

• Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used in the past 2-3 days.
• Use hot water (at least 130°F) and high heat in the dryer for at least 20 minutes.
• Seal non-washable items in plastic bags for two weeks.
• Avoid sharing personal items like combs, brushes, or towels.
• Refrain from intimate contact until treatment is complete and successful.

How effective is vacuuming in preventing reinfestation? While vacuuming rugs and furniture can help, it’s not a substitute for proper washing and treatment of personal items. Focus on thorough cleaning of items that have been in direct contact with infested individuals.

Pubic Lice Survival: Understanding the Life Cycle

Understanding how long pubic lice can survive off the human body is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Pubic lice feed on human blood and typically die within 1-2 days if they fall off the body. However, their eggs can survive longer.

How long can pubic lice eggs survive on clothing? Lice eggs (nits) can take about 6-10 days to hatch. This means that eggs on clothing or bedding can potentially cause reinfestation if not properly dealt with. This is why thorough washing or sealing of items is essential in the treatment process.

Temperature and Survival

Pubic lice are sensitive to temperature changes. High heat is an effective way to kill both lice and their eggs. This is why washing clothes and bedding in hot water (at least 130°F) and using high heat in the dryer is recommended. For items that can’t be washed, sealing them in a plastic bag for two weeks ensures that any lice or eggs present will die due to lack of food and appropriate conditions.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many cases of pubic lice can be treated at home with OTC medications, there are situations where professional medical help is necessary. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if:

• OTC treatments fail to eliminate the infestation after repeated use
• You have lice in your eyebrows or eyelashes
• You’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• You experience severe itching or signs of a skin infection
• You’re unsure about the diagnosis or proper treatment method

What should you expect during a medical consultation for pubic lice? A healthcare provider will typically perform a physical examination to confirm the diagnosis. They may use a magnifying glass to closely inspect the affected areas. Based on their findings, they can prescribe stronger medications if needed and provide personalized advice on treatment and prevention.

The Importance of Partner Notification and Treatment

Treating pubic lice isn’t just about addressing your own infestation; it’s crucial to inform sexual partners and recent intimate contacts. This step is essential for several reasons:

• Prevents reinfestation
• Stops the spread of lice to others
• Ensures simultaneous treatment for better effectiveness

How should you approach the conversation about pubic lice with partners? While it can be an uncomfortable topic, it’s important to be direct and honest. Explain that you’ve been diagnosed with pubic lice, that it’s a common and treatable condition, and that they should seek treatment as well. Emphasize that simultaneous treatment is crucial to prevent passing the lice back and forth.

Timing of Partner Treatment

For optimal results, sexual partners and recent intimate contacts should undergo treatment at the same time as the infected individual. This synchronized approach helps break the cycle of infestation and reduces the risk of immediate reinfestation after treatment.

Post-Treatment Care and Monitoring

After completing the initial treatment for pubic lice, it’s important to monitor the situation closely and take proper care to ensure complete eradication of the infestation. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Continue to check for signs of live lice or newly hatched eggs for at least two weeks after treatment.
2. Be aware that itching may persist for a few days after successful treatment due to skin irritation.
3. If you notice any signs of live lice after 9-10 days, repeat the treatment as directed.
4. Keep all treated items (clothing, bedding) separate from untreated items to prevent potential reinfestation.
5. Consider a follow-up examination with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure about the treatment’s success.

How can you differentiate between normal post-treatment irritation and signs of persistent infestation? While some itching is normal after treatment due to skin sensitivity, the presence of crawling sensations or visible lice and eggs indicates that the infestation may still be active. In this case, consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Soothing Post-Treatment Discomfort

To alleviate itching and discomfort following pubic lice treatment, consider these methods:

• Apply over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation and itching
• Take cool baths to soothe irritated skin
• Use calamine lotion for itch relief
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to minimize friction on treated areas

Remember, while these methods can provide relief, they don’t treat the infestation itself. Always complete the full course of lice treatment as directed.

Addressing Common Misconceptions About Pubic Lice

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding pubic lice that can lead to unnecessary stigma and improper treatment approaches. Let’s address some of these common misunderstandings:

Myth: Pubic Lice Indicate Poor Hygiene

Contrary to popular belief, pubic lice infestations are not related to personal cleanliness. These parasites can affect anyone who comes into close contact with an infested person, regardless of hygiene habits. Excessive washing or bathing will not prevent or cure an infestation.

Myth: Pubic Lice Can Jump or Fly

Pubic lice cannot jump or fly. They spread through close body contact, usually during sexual activity. They can also sometimes spread through sharing clothing, towels, or bedding with an infested person.

Myth: You Can Get Pubic Lice from Toilet Seats

The risk of getting pubic lice from sitting on a toilet seat is extremely low. These parasites cannot live long away from a human body and do not have feet designed to walk or hold onto smooth surfaces.

How do these misconceptions impact treatment and prevention? Understanding the true nature of pubic lice transmission helps in focusing on effective prevention methods and reduces unnecessary anxiety about casual contact. It also emphasizes the importance of treating intimate partners and properly handling personal items rather than obsessing over public surfaces.

Long-Term Prevention Strategies

While treating an active infestation is crucial, developing long-term prevention strategies is equally important to avoid future occurrences of pubic lice. Here are some key practices to incorporate:

• Practice safe sex and use protection during intimate encounters
• Avoid sharing personal items like towels, clothing, or bedding with others
• Regularly inspect yourself for signs of lice, especially after new sexual encounters
• Maintain open communication with sexual partners about sexual health
• Consider routine STD screenings as part of your overall health maintenance

How effective is abstinence in preventing pubic lice? While abstinence is the most foolproof way to avoid sexually transmitted pubic lice, it’s not always practical or desirable for everyone. The key is to practice safe, responsible intimate behaviors and maintain awareness of your sexual health.

Education and Awareness

Increasing your knowledge about pubic lice and other sexually transmitted infections can significantly contribute to prevention. Stay informed about:

• Symptoms of various STIs, including pubic lice
• Proper use of protection during sexual activities
• The importance of regular health check-ups
• Resources for sexual health information and treatment in your area

By staying informed and proactive, you can significantly reduce your risk of pubic lice infestations and maintain better overall sexual health.

The Psychological Impact of Pubic Lice Infestations

While pubic lice are a common and treatable condition, the psychological impact of an infestation can be significant for many individuals. Understanding and addressing these emotional aspects is an important part of the overall treatment and recovery process.

Common Emotional Responses

People diagnosed with pubic lice may experience a range of emotions, including:

• Embarrassment or shame
• Anxiety about informing partners
• Fear of judgment or stigma
• Stress about the treatment process
• Worry about repeat infestations

How can individuals cope with the emotional impact of a pubic lice infestation? It’s important to remember that pubic lice are a common issue that can affect anyone, regardless of personal habits or lifestyle. Focusing on treatment and prevention rather than self-blame can help manage negative emotions.

Seeking Support

For those struggling with the psychological impact of pubic lice, consider the following support options:

• Confide in a trusted friend or family member
• Seek counseling or therapy if feelings of anxiety or shame persist
• Join online support groups or forums for individuals with similar experiences
• Educate yourself about the condition to reduce fear and uncertainty

Remember, healthcare providers are accustomed to dealing with pubic lice and can offer non-judgmental support and advice. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns or questions with them during your treatment process.

Future Developments in Pubic Lice Treatment

While current treatments for pubic lice are generally effective, research continues to explore new and improved methods for dealing with this common infestation. Understanding potential future developments can provide hope and perspective for those affected by pubic lice.

Emerging Treatment Options

Researchers are exploring several avenues for new pubic lice treatments, including:

• More effective topical medications with fewer side effects
• Oral treatments that can eliminate lice from the inside out
• Natural and plant-based remedies with insecticidal properties
• Improved combs and tools for mechanical removal of lice and nits

How might these developments change the landscape of pubic lice treatment? Future treatments could potentially offer faster results, reduce the need for multiple applications, and decrease the risk of reinfestation. This could make the treatment process less stressful and more efficient for affected individuals.

Prevention Innovations

In addition to treatment advancements, research is also focusing on innovative prevention methods, such as:

• Development of fabrics or materials that repel or kill lice
• Improved diagnostic tools for early detection
• Public health initiatives for better education and awareness

These advancements could significantly reduce the incidence of pubic lice infestations and improve overall sexual health outcomes.

While these developments are promising, it’s important to remember that current treatments, when used correctly, are highly effective in managing pubic lice infestations. Always consult with healthcare professionals for the most up-to-date and appropriate treatment options for your specific situation.

Where Can I Get Treated For Pubic Lice?

In This Section

• Pubic Lice (Crabs)

• What are the symptoms of pubic lice?

• Do I have pubic lice?

• How do I treat pubic lice?

• How can I prevent getting or spreading pubic lice?

Pubic lice are easy to treat — you usually don’t even need a doctor’s prescription. You can get over-the-counter pubic lice treatment at a drugstore, or from your nurse or doctor.

What’s the treatment for pubic lice?

Pubic lice treatments are easy to use and come in gels, shampoos, liquids, and foam. Most are sold over-the-counter in drugstores, so you can buy them without getting a prescription from a doctor first. Common brands are A-200, Rid, and Nix. Follow the directions that come in the package carefully. You may need to use the treatment more than once.

You can get stronger medicines for pubic lice with a prescription. If you have lice in your eyebrows or eyelashes, you need a special kind of treatment that you can only get from your nurse or doctor. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your nurse or doctor before using any treatment.

Anyone you’ve had intimate contact with should treat themselves at the same time, so you don’t pass crabs back and forth. Always use freshly-washed clothes, towels, and bedding after you finish treatment.

What do I need to do to get rid of pubic lice?

Even after you finish the treatment, most of the nits (lice eggs) will stay stuck to your hairs. You can pick them off with your fingernails or a fine-toothed comb.

Along with using medication, wash or dry clean all of your bedding and towels. Also wash or dry clean any clothing that you wore while you had crabs. Wash these fabrics on the hottest setting, and dry them on the hot cycle for at least 20 minutes.

You can also put fabrics that can’t be washed in a sealed bag for 2 weeks, until the crabs and their eggs die out. You can also vacuum rugs and furniture. You don’t need to call an exterminator or fumigate your home.

Tell your sexual partners and anyone else you’ve had intimate contact with during the last month that they may have crabs. You should all treat yourselves at the same time so you don’t re-infect each other. And don’t have sex or any other kind of intimate contact until everyone finishes their treatment and knows their crabs are gone for good. It’s also a good idea to get tested for other STDs.

If you still see live lice after 9-10 days, do the treatment again. And make sure you’ve washed everything you needed to, and that your sexual partners did the treatment too. If the crabs still don’t go away, talk to your nurse or doctor.

Is there a home remedy for public lice?

Home remedies like hot baths or shaving don’t work. Treatments that soothe itching (like hydrocortisone cream) can help you feel better, but they won’t cure your crabs. The only thing that will actually get rid of your crabs for good are medicines meant to kill pubic lice. 

Trying to treat your pubic lice with home remedies can make your infection worse, and waiting to treat your pubic lice can make it more likely that you’ll spread the crabs to other people. 

Pubic lice are easy to treat — you usually don’t even need a prescription. You can get over-the-counter pubic lice treatment at a drugstore, or from your nurse or doctor.

More questions from patients:

How long does pubic lice live on clothes?

Pubic lice (crabs) feed on human blood. So if one falls off your body, it usually dies within 1–2 days. However, their eggs can take about 6–10 days to hatch. So if an egg is on your clothing or bed sheets, that can cause another infection. 

To get rid of pubic lice and their eggs, machine wash and dry your clothes and bed sheets in hot water (at least 130°F) and the high heat drying cycle. Clothes and other things that aren’t washable can be dry-cleaned or sealed in a plastic bag and stored for 2 weeks (until the lice and eggs die out).

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6 best home remedies for lice

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People may claim that various home remedies can treat head lice, but there is a lack of scientific evidence to show that these remedies are effective and safe.

Research into many of these remedies has produced inconclusive results. Scientists have frequently found that home remedies for lice do not work and may not meet safety standards.

It is important for people considering these remedies to speak with a doctor, review the evidence, and weigh up the benefits and risks of at-home treatment.

Although doctors continue to debate the effects of home remedies for lice, they agree that a person can take nonmedical measures to reduce the spread of lice and prevent them from returning.

Share on PinterestLice can infest pubic hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, and the hair on the head.

Lice are tiny insects that feed on human blood. Adult lice measure 2–3 millimeters in length and lay their eggs on hair, close to the skin.

They can infest pubic hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows, though they most commonly live in the hair on the head.

As lice lay eggs that hatch quickly, an infestation can build up rapidly. Killing lice requires the elimination of both the insects and their eggs. If a person uses a treatment that does not kill the eggs, they will need to repeat it once the eggs have hatched.

Many people believe that home remedies can kill lice, eggs, or both. Below, learn about these remedies, as well as when to seek medical treatment and how to prevent lice from spreading.

1. Anise oil

Anise oil may coat and suffocate lice. A 2018 study of natural remedies for lice in children found that anise oil was one of the most effective natural remedies.

Although other natural remedies were frequently effective, anise oil was one of just two that permanently eliminated lice. People who used other herbal remedies typically reported reinfestations within a couple of months.

People looking to purchase anise oil can find it in health food stores and online.

2. Olive oil

Olive oil offers similar benefits to anise oil, potentially suffocating lice and preventing them from coming back. Like anise oil, it ranked among the most effective remedies in the same 2018 study. People who want a highly effective home remedy should consider using olive oil and anise oil together.

Olive oil may have other benefits for the hair and scalp. Learn more here.

Olive oil is available to purchase in many grocery stores and online.

3. Coconut oil

Share on PinterestCoconut oil is a common treatment for people with dry skin and hair.

Coconut oil is a popular treatment for dry skin and hair.

The researchers behind a 2010 study in Brazil explored the effects of several natural head lice remedies and compared the results with those of over-the-counter (OTC) treatments.

Of the tested remedies, the team found that pure coconut oil was the only effective treatment. Within 4 hours of applying the oil, an average of 80% of the head lice were dead.

The two most effective medicated shampoos killed 97.9% and 90.2% of lice in the same period.

People can purchase coconut oil in many health food stores and online.

4. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is a popular home remedy for many skin conditions because of its antimicrobial properties.

In a 2010 study, researchers measured the effects of a tea tree and lavender oil blend on head lice in 42 people. After three treatments at weekly intervals, 41of the participants no longer had head lice. This success rate is comparable to that of many prescription and OTC treatments.

However, other research assessing tea tree oil as a treatment for head lice has found the remedy to be less effective. Also, tea tree oil can sometimes irritate the skin and may cause a rash or itchiness.

Learn more about the potential health benefits of tea tree oil here. This product is available for purchase in some pharmacies, health food stores, and online.

5. Petroleum jelly

Petroleum jelly may kill lice by suffocating the insects and possibly their eggs.

Petroleum jelly can be greasy and messy, and removing it may require repeated washings. However, for people with treatment-resistant lice or an allergy to lice shampoos, it may be an effective option.

Petroleum jelly is available for purchase in drugstores and online.

6. Mayonnaise

The United States version of the television series “The Office” may have popularized the use of mayonnaise to treat lice.

Proponents claim that mayonnaise smothers lice and makes it easier for a person to comb them from the hair. Some people also say that mayonnaise can ease the itching and scalp irritation that lice cause.

There is no evidence that mayonnaise can kill or treat lice. While this home remedy is probably harmless, it is likely to be messy and inconvenient.

Other remedies

Herbalists and supporters of natural remedies argue that a wide range of products, including garlic, thyme oil, and sesame oil, can treat head lice. However, there is little if any scientific evidence to support their effectiveness.

Research has shown that garlic has few benefits as a treatment for a lice infestation. While thyme and sesame oils led to some improvements initially, people who used them often saw the infestation resurge. Anise and coconut oils worked better as head lice treatments.

Research into the effectiveness of home remedies for lice is ongoing. Emerging data suggest that some home remedies, such as coconut oil or anise oil, may be effective. However, the available data are not conclusive.

Overall, existing research does not confirm that home remedies do not work. Instead, it points to the importance of further studies.

A major concern about home remedies is that they may not permanently eliminate lice. A study of numerous natural remedies found that in most cases, lice infestations returned within 2–8 weeks of treatment.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that people with active lice infestations use medical treatments. Lice can reproduce quickly, and infestations can be itchy and painful.

If a lice infestation is very mild, a person may wish to try a home remedy first. However, if a rash or reaction develops or if the lice reappear, it is best to try an OTC lice shampoo instead. If this is not effective, a doctor can prescribe a more powerful medication.

Share on PinterestA person can help reduce the spread of lice by washing all the fabrics they have used in the last 2 days.

A person can take steps to prevent the spread of lice and reduce the risk of reinfestation.

They can try the following:

• Using machines to wash and dry bedding, clothing, and other fabrics that a person with lice has used in the 2 days before treatment. Washing at a temperature above 130 °F will generally kill the insects. Alternately, try sealing the fabrics in plastic bags for 2 weeks.
• Soaking combs, brushes, and other hair care items in hot water for 5–10 minutes.
• Vacuuming the furniture, floor, and other surfaces that may contain lice or their eggs. Lice die quickly when they are not on a person, so there is no need to pay for expensive deep cleaning services.
• Avoiding sharing brushes or combs.
• Discouraging children from playing with one another’s hair, sharing pillowcases, or rubbing their heads together, especially if there has been a recent lice outbreak at their school.

It is important to refrain from using fumigant sprays, which are not necessary to eliminate lice and can be dangerous.

Lice are highly contagious, and anyone can get them. Having lice does not mean that a person has bad hygiene or is otherwise unhealthy.

Lice are not typically dangerous, but an infestation can be uncomfortable, and because they are so contagious, prompt treatment is essential.

A doctor or another healthcare professional can help guide treatment decisions. A person with a weak immune system, a history of serious skin reactions, or previous experience with treatment-resistant lice should talk to a healthcare professional before treating a lice infestation.

How to quickly and competently cure pediculosis?

One of the main features of the parasitic disease of pediculosis is the rapid spread of the disease and a quick cure, which cannot be called quite expensive either in time or in material resources. This disease has come to us since ancient times, when outbreaks of epidemics and foci of unsanitary conditions were integral companions of people’s daily lives.

However, modern doctors deny the theory that the causative agents of human pediculosis – head, body and pubic lice choose their owner in accordance with the regularity of their observance of the basic rules of personal and public hygiene, since lice are often found in people who are quite scrupulous in matters of self-care.

In fact, lice are much more likely to cling to people who are prone to more frequent water procedures, since the protective film of sebum produced by the sebaceous glands, which prevents lice from biting and feeding, does not linger on their skin. The absence of an additional protective barrier on the skin creates an optimal environment for the pathological activity of lice, so doctors strongly advise not to exceed the number of bath procedures per day, it is enough to limit yourself to 1-2.

Lice do not feed on pieces of the upper layers of the skin or hairline, as many people think. Lice are blood-sucking organisms that, in the process of evolution, have adapted perfectly to obtaining food. At the end of their paws there are special hooks with which lice cling to hair roots during feeding, and their oral apparatus is adapted to pierce the epidermis and absorb blood.
The definition of pediculosis will not be difficult if you know about the characteristic symptoms that reveal the parasitic activity of lice:

1. Detection of live insects in the scalp, on eyelashes and eyebrows, on mustaches and beards, on bed linen and in folds of clothing, in the armpit and around the genitals;
2. Detection of lice eggs, which look like rounded white or yellow grains, which are usually found at the very base of the hair shaft;
3. Constant feeling of itching in the areas affected by parasites, caused by lice bites and injection into the wounds of the secret of the salivary glands;
4. Redness and scratching at the sites of bites, accumulation of pigment cells under the upper layers of the epidermis, a yellow border around bite wounds;
5. Dark spots of blue or bluish color in places of the most active vital activity of parasites;
6. The appearance of rashes, abscesses and boils, which is a consequence of a violation of the integrity of the skin during the feeding of lice;
7. The affected area of ​​the skin thickens, becomes rough to the touch;
8. In the case of prolonged parasitism of lice on the same host, the hair follicles become inflamed, interruptions occur in their normal functioning, which causes folliculitis.

The treatment of pediculosis consists of several stages: inhibition of the vital activity of lice, combing out nits and dead parasites from the hairline, heat treatment of clothes, personal hygiene items and washing of bed linen of a person suffering from pediculosis, and then repeated chemical treatment of the affected skin area and combing out the lice so as not to cause a recurrence of the disease in the event of an inattentive check of the skin and hairline for the presence of parasites after the first treatment.

Medicines for the elimination of lice are divided into products for external use and products for internal use. Means of internal use are aimed at changing the chemical composition of the blood to a more toxic one for parasites, which negatively affects their vital functions, killing lice during feeding. Safer and less harmful to humans are substances for external use, since they directly affect parasites, inhibiting their activity by suffocation.

In some topical products, substances such as permethrin, phenothrin, malathion and pyrethrin can be found in the composition. These components help not only to kill living insects, but also act on the compacted membrane of nits, dissolving it and killing the larva inside even before it leaves the egg. Such drugs help to more effectively fight pediculosis, since they simultaneously destroy adult lice and prevent the larvae from developing, which prevents the appearance of new offspring of parasites.

For effective removal of lice and nits, doctors strongly recommend drugs such as Nittifor, Para Plus, Pedex, Spray-Pax, Nix, Spregal, Medifox, Hygia shampoo, permethrin ointment, Nit, Pediculen, Nudu, Reed and Medilis Malathion.

The use of these preparations is the chemical part of getting rid of lice and nits. After using one of these products, dead insects and nits should be combed out with a fine-toothed comb over a sheet or over a white sheet of paper (light-colored material is needed to more accurately check the hairline for parasites). After using an external lice remover, you can not wash your head for another two days. If necessary, treatment with the drug should be repeated no later than three days later. If most of the parasites remain alive after treating the skin with a chemical agent, then this drug is not suitable for you and it must be replaced with another one.

Treatment of pediculosis in children consists in careful heat treatment of the child’s personal belongings, washing and ironing clothes and bed linen, as well as treating the affected area with a drug that does not contain aggressive synthetic insecticides that can negatively affect the physiological functions of the baby’s body. Until complete recovery, it is best to limit the appearance of the child in crowded places so that he does not become a source of infection.

You can also get rid of lice in children with the help of alternative therapy methods, which are more gentle in effect, but are not inferior in effectiveness to pharmacy products. A mixture of turpentine and olive vegetable oil in a ratio of 1:10 can be applied to the affected skin area so that the turpentine does not cause chemical burns on the skin.

Eliminate parasites and dissolve the adhesive that attaches the nits to the hair fibers, which will facilitate the task of combing out the lice, parsley decoction with crushed black cumin seeds and petroleum jelly will help. The consistency of the mixture is quite thick, which will create unfavorable conditions for feeding and development of parasites.

In the fight against pediculosis, a garlic-onion mask to get rid of lice will be an excellent helper. Onion must be finely chopped, add 3-4 cloves of crushed garlic and 2 egg yolks. This mixture is best heated in a water bath, then applied to the scalp and wrapped with a scarf to create an additional thermal effect. Lice cannot stand the specific aroma of onions and die from suffocation.

Women during pregnancy and breastfeeding need to remember that the treatment of pediculosis should not include the use of drugs with many aggressive components that can penetrate the fetus through the placenta or adversely affect the composition of milk, changing it to more toxic for the baby.

The best solution to get rid of pediculosis will be alternative therapy methods that allow you to effectively deal with the pathological activity of lice, while not having a harmful effect on the mother’s body and on the baby’s still fragile body.

You can neutralize parasites with cranberry juice, boric ointment, tar soap and mint decoction with pomegranate juice. You can also use essential oils that are too strong for lice, such as geranium, lavender, lemon, or tea tree.

Since the skin of a woman during pregnancy is highly sensitive, doctors do not recommend the use of apple or table vinegar to combat lice in pregnant women, since even a low concentration of the agent can cause chemical burns of the skin.

Preventive measures against lice infestation consist of the systematic observance of personal and social hygiene rules, which include regular washing of the body and head, regular washing and ironing of clothes and bedding, the use of lavender oil or tea tree oil to repel parasites. You also need to remember that your personal items, such as hair ties and hairpins, a comb, hats, as well as wardrobe items and a towel, are strictly yours and cannot be shared with anyone else.

It is mandatory to visit a doctor several times a year for preventive examinations, which will help to detect the presence of diseases even at the asymptomatic stage.

The elimination of pediculosis can not be called too troublesome, but the treatment of this disease must be taken seriously so that the problem does not bother you again in the future. In order to prevent a recurrence of the disease, it is necessary to carefully and scrupulously follow all the rules for fighting lice, sparing no effort and free time.

Pubic lice – Appotek

Pubic lice – also known as crab lice – are small parasites that attach themselves to the skin and hair in the genital area, less often in the armpits or abdomen. Pubic lice are not dangerous and relatively easy to get rid of, but they can be spread from person to person. They are spread by close contact, mainly by sexual intercourse, but also by sharing towels or wearing clothing from an infected person.

APPOTEK can help you with pubic lice.

Causes

There are three types of lice that infect people – head lice, body lice and pubic lice.

Lice feed on human blood and cause severe itching in the affected areas. Pubic lice usually live on the pubic hair and are spread through sexual contact. In rare cases, they can be found on the eyelashes, in the armpits, or on the abdomen. Pubic lice are often smaller than head lice and body lice. Adult lice lay their eggs at the root of the hair, near the skin. These eggs are called nits. After 7-10 days, nymphs hatch from the nits and begin to feed on blood. Pubic lice are parasites that need blood to survive. Out of the body, they die in about a day.

Symptoms

Itching in the genital area or anus is the most common symptom of pubic lice and is an allergic reaction to their saliva.

The first infestation with pubic lice is itchy after about 4-6 weeks. But if you encounter pubic lice again, itching starts after 1-2 days. Itching usually gets worse at night because that’s when the lice are most active. Excessive itching can cause sores and scratching or inflammation in the affected areas.

Other common symptoms of pubic lice include:

• low grade fever
• irritability
• lack of energy
• pale bluish spots at bite sites

Pediculosis is usually easy to diagnose by examining the affected area. Lice are small, about 2–3 mm, and are usually pale brownish in color. You are probably infested with lice if you see small, crab-like insects moving around in your pubic hair. Nits are another sign of infection.

The eggs look like small white grains and are usually located around the roots of pubic hair. Sometimes they can also be found in the armpits, beard and eyebrows, as well as on the eyelashes.

Children with eyelash lice are also at risk of developing conjunctivitis.

Prevention and Protection

To prevent pubic lice infestation, you should not share clothing, bedding, or towels with anyone who has pubic lice. Sexual contact should also be avoided until the treatment has been completely and successfully completed.

Once you have been diagnosed with head lice, you must report all current and past sexual partners so that they can also be treated.

Washing clothes and towels in the washing machine at 60 degrees kills lice.

Easier said than done, but try not to itch if you itch. There is a risk that you will leave small wounds that may become infected.

Treatment

The treatment for pubic lice is to deactivate your body, clothes and bedding.

There are special preparations for pubic lice that also reduce itching, which can be found in pharmacies. However, you should check with your doctor before starting treatment to make sure that your symptoms are caused by pubic lice.

Anti-lice lotion containing 1% permethrin or mousse containing pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide can be used to treat pubic lice. These drugs are available over the counter from pharmacies and are safe and effective when used as directed. The effectiveness of the treatment is increased if the pediculicide remains on the skin and hair for at least an hour. A second course of treatment is recommended over the next seven to ten days to kill the newly hatched nymphs.

Topical lotions and shampoos can also be used to remove pubic lice from the body. Ask your doctor which drugs are safe to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or treating a child for pubic lice.

You may only need pubic hair hygiene if the lice infestation is not severe. Sometimes prescription drugs may be required for treatment.

Even after successful treatment, a few eggs may remain in the hair. Remove any remaining nits with tweezers. Home remedies such as shaving the pubic area and hot baths are not effective in treating pubic lice. Lice can easily tolerate ordinary soap and water.

If several people in your family have pubic lice, they should all be treated at the same time. This will help prevent re-infection.

You will also need to deactivate your home. Vacuum and mop the floors in the house, clean the bathroom with a special solution. Wash all towels, linens and clothes in hot water and dry them in the washing machine. If you can’t wash or clean a particular item of clothing, seal it in an airtight plastic bag for 72 hours.