Lice (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
When to Seek Medical Care
When to call the doctor
While lice can easily and effectively be treated with home-care methods, call your doctor if these conditions develop:
- if skin or scalp infections develop from scratching
with symptoms such as discharge, redness, swelling, pain, or tenderness of the
area;
- if home treatment doesn't work after using
over-the-counter medications as directed (see below);
- for further testing for sexually transmitted diseases (if pubic lice are discovered);
- if itching continues even after treatment with
over-the-counter antihistamines; and
- if lice persist and treatment has failed.
When to go to the hospital
- if infections from scratching are not improving, are worsening while you are on medications, or if other symptoms develop such as fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting
- if you develop an allergic reaction to medications (indicated by a rash, swelling to the lips or tongue or if you have any trouble breathing)
Next: Exams and Tests »
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Lice »
Louse infestation remains a major problem throughout the world. Head louse infestation among school children has reached epidemic proportions in many parts of the United States.
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