|
|
 |
Pubic
lice -- Pediculosis pubis or "crabs"
are very tiny insects that infest the pubic hair and survive
by feeding on human blood. These parasites are most often
spread by sexual contact, but they may also be caught
through contact with infested bedding or clothing. |
The primary
symptom of infestation is itching in the pubic area. Scratching
may spread the lice to other parts of the body, so every effort
should be made to avoid touching the infected area.
Incubation
Period
The eggs of
lice hatch in a week, they mature in about 8 - 10 days.
How
Do You Know If You Have Them?
Pubic lice
are diagnosed easily because they are visible to the naked
eye. They are pinhead size, oval in shape, and grayish, but
appear reddish-brown when full of blood from their host. Nits,
the tiny white eggs, also are visible and usually are observed
clinging to the base of pubic hair.
| Lotions
and shampoos that will kill pubic lice are available both
over the counter and by prescription. Creams or lotions
containing lindane, a powerful pesticide, are most frequently
prescribed for the treatment of pubic lice. (Pregnant women
may be advised not to use this drug.) Itching may persist
even after the lice have been killed. This is because the
skin has been irritated and requires time to heal. See your
health care provider if you think you have lice. |
|
All persons
with whom an infested individual has come into close contact,
including family and close friends as well as sex partners,
should be treated to ensure that the lice have been eliminated.
All clothing and bedding should be washed in very hot water
(125F), dried at a high setting to rid them of any lice.
Pubic lice die within 24 hours of being separated from the
body. Because the eggs may live up to six days, it is important
to apply the treatment for the full time recommended.
|
Copyright © 2000-2007 Cool Nurse. All Rights Reserved.
No part of this web site may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher.
Cool Nurse shall not be liable for any errors in content of this site, see disclaimer
|
