Body lice: Overview
Body lice are tiny bugs that can live in the seams of clothing or bedding (sheets, pillows, and blankets). They are hard to find on the body. It's much easier to see lice or their eggs (nits) on clothes.
Body lice are most often spread by contact with a person who has body lice or with that person's clothes, bedding, or towels. They are usually found only when people can't wash their bodies or their clothes regularly.
Lice can cause very bad itching, especially at night. They can also cause sores in the armpits, waist, or torso. These are places where the seams of clothing can press against the skin. In rare cases, body lice carry disease. This usually only happens when people are living closely together in places where they can't bathe regularly.
Most people can get rid of lice by washing personal items and their bodies regularly.
What are the symptoms of body lice?
Body lice can cause very bad itching, especially at night. They can also cause sores in the armpits, waist, or torso. These are places where the seams of clothing can press against your skin.
How are body lice treated?
Most people can get rid of body lice by washing personal items and their bodies regularly. If these steps don't work, your doctor can suggest an over-the-counter or prescription medicine to kill body lice that is safe for you. It's important to use any medicine correctly.
How are body lice diagnosed?
A doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical exam. The doctor will check your body and clothes for lice and their eggs (nits). They'll also look for lice bites or sores where the seams of clothing press against the skin, such as the armpits, waist, or torso.
How can you care for yourself when you have body lice?
You can probably get rid of lice by washing personal items in hot water and bathing at least once a week. If washing doesn't work, try an over-the-counter or prescription medicine to kill body lice. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Try an over-the-counter anti-itch cream to calm the itching.
Body lice
Body lice ("louse" for just one) live and lay eggs (nits) in the seams of clothing. They are only present on the body when they are feeding. Body lice are usually spread through contact with personal items such as clothing and towels.
What are body lice?
Body lice are tiny insects that can live in the seams of clothing or bedding. They're most common in people who can't wash their bodies or clothes regularly. Body lice are usually spread by contact with someone who has body lice or with that person's clothes, bedding, or towels.
Body lice in children: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child has signs of a skin infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, and redness.
- Red streaks coming from an area of the skin.
- Pus draining from the area.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You see live lice or new nits after you have followed your doctor's directions.
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