Remedies For An Itchy Scalp

Head Lice Medication

Patients who have head lice will often experience severe itching. The itching occurs due to an allergy to louse saliva. It normally starts two to six weeks after the infestation and typically affects the scalp, neck, and ears. Patients may also notice lice on the scalp, and lice eggs could be present on the hair shaft. Dandruff, scabs, and product residue could be mistaken for lice, so patients must see a doctor to confirm a lice infestation. If the infestation is confirmed, physicians often recommend starting treatment with an over-the-counter head lice medication. These medications kill lice and some of their eggs, but they may not kill eggs that have been laid recently. Examples of over-the-counter lice medications include permethrin and pyrethrin with additives. The medicines may cause scalp redness and itching. After the first treatment, patients may need a second treatment roughly nine days later to kill all of the lice. If over-the-counter options are ineffective, doctors can prescribe ivermectin, malathion, or spinosad.

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