How to prepare for a video visit about Lice (Pediculosis)

Audience: adult

Lice (Pediculosis) are tiny insects that live on the scalp and cause itching. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand how to identify and manage lice. Before your appointment, gather information about your symptoms and any treatments you have tried. During the visit, you may be asked to show the affected area using your camera. Telemedicine can guide you on treatment options and how to prevent spreading lice to others. However, some cases may need in-person care, especially if the infestation is severe or if there are signs of infection. Preparing well for your video visit helps make the most of your time with the provider and supports better care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe scalp redness, swelling, or pus indicating possible infection — seek in-person medical care promptly.
• Persistent or worsening itching despite treatment — contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
• Development of fever or swollen lymph nodes with lice infestation — seek urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of lice symptoms and history.
• Guidance on treatment options and how to use lice shampoos or combing.
• Advice on cleaning and preventing spread to others.
• Answering questions about lice lifecycle and prevention.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or treating severe scalp infections or complications.
• Performing physical removal of lice or eggs.
• Evaluating other scalp conditions that may mimic lice infestation.
• Providing prescriptions that require physical examination or lab tests.

What are lice and how do they spread?

Lice are small insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood. They spread mainly through close head-to-head contact with someone who has lice. Sharing hats, combs, or pillows may also spread lice but is less common. Lice do not jump or fly.

Preparing for your video visit

Before your appointment, check your scalp and hair for lice or their eggs (nits). Try to find a quiet, well-lit place for the video call. Have a comb or brush handy to show the provider if needed. Write down any symptoms you have, such as itching or sores, and any treatments you have already tried.

What to expect during the video visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and may ask you to show your scalp using the camera. They will discuss treatment options, which often include special shampoos or combing techniques. The provider can also give advice on cleaning bedding and preventing spread to others.

When to seek in-person care

If you have severe itching, open sores, signs of infection like redness or swelling, or if treatments have not worked, you may need to see a healthcare provider in person. Also, if you or someone in your household has other health conditions, in-person evaluation may be recommended.

Preventing lice and re-infestation

Avoid sharing personal items like hats and combs. Wash bedding, hats, and clothing in hot water and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets and furniture regularly. Check family members and close contacts for lice and treat if needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit space for your video visit.
• Have a comb or brush ready to show your scalp if asked.
• Check your scalp and hair for lice or nits before the visit.
• Write down your symptoms and any treatments you have tried.
• Prepare a list of questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan discussed during your visit carefully.
• Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and dry on high heat.
• Avoid sharing personal items like hats and combs to prevent spread.
• Monitor your symptoms and scalp condition over the next days.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or do not improve.

FAQs

Can lice infestations be treated without seeing a doctor in person?

Yes, many lice infestations can be treated at home using over-the-counter shampoos and combing techniques. A telemedicine visit can help guide you on proper treatment and prevention.

How do I know if I have lice or just dandruff?

Lice eggs (nits) are small, oval, and stick firmly to hair shafts near the scalp. Dandruff flakes are usually larger and fall off easily. A healthcare provider can help you distinguish between them during a video visit.

Is it safe to use lice treatment shampoos on children?

Many lice treatments are safe for children over a certain age, but you should follow the product instructions carefully. Your healthcare provider can advise you on safe options during your visit.

How long does it take to get rid of lice?

With proper treatment, lice can often be eliminated within one to two weeks. Sometimes a second treatment is needed to kill newly hatched lice.

Can pets get lice and spread them to humans?

No, human lice do not live on pets. Pets do not spread lice to people.

Sources

1. Head Lice — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Pediculosis (Lice) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Lice: Diagnosis and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
4. Pediculosis Capitis (Head Lice) — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have concerning symptoms or complications, please seek in-person evaluation promptly.