Head lice
Scalp itching can raise a question about lice, but identifying live lice or nits helps guide the next step.
Common symptoms
- Itchy scalp
- Visible lice or eggs attached to hair
- Irritation from scratching
A useful care conversation
Describe what you have seen, who is affected and which products have already been used. An optional photo may help. The clinician can discuss an age-appropriate treatment approach, product directions and preventing spread, without assuming every itchy scalp is lice.
When to seek more care
- Get assessed for severe scalp irritation, fever, spreading redness or pus.
- If treatment is not working, seek advice before repeating or combining products.
General educational information, not a diagnosis or a complete symptom checker. The right care depends on your circumstances.
For an emergency, call 911. Do not wait for a Tap reply or send a photo first.
About this information
Adapted from Tap’s published care-topic library. Original publication: 2025-01-01. Prepared for this guide: 2026-09-07. Preparation is not a clinical-review certification.
The clinician decides whether advice, testing, an examination or a prescription is appropriate. A listed topic does not guarantee remote treatment or a refill. Tap does not prescribe controlled substances.