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Delaney Gislason

Health

Appreciating The Myths And Facts About Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies can be lethal, and these days there is a lot of misinformation around what causes allergies and how to avoid them. The best way for you to get ahead of your allergy is to conduct plenty of research, including discussing with Pompeyo C Chavez, MD, so that you understand what fact is and what is fiction when it comes to seasonal allergies. Some of the most used phrases concerning seasonal allergies include:

You can develop allergies as an adult.

This one is a fact. Anyone can develop an allergy at any age. Adults are not exempt from developing new allergies. This condition occurs when your body mistakenly identifies certain substances in the environment as harmful. As you age, your immune system becomes weaker, which also weakens our hyper allergenic reactions. Most adults who experience an allergy will have already gone through the experience during their early life and cannot remember. These childhood allergies may often stay dormant throughout a patient’s teenage years, only to emerge later on in adulthood.  So if you are feeling the sniffles, but assume it could not possibly be allergies, think again.

Eating local honey helps relieve allergy symptoms.

Unfortunately, this one is fiction. There has been a lot of buzz around this idea because bees collect pollen from local plants and use it to create their honey, and it could help build up your immunity to those local allergens. Believe it or not, flower pollen is one of the minor common allergens. What triggers most people’s seasonal allergies are pollens from trees, grass, and weeds, not in your local honey. Even though honey tastes nice and can help you feel better by raising your dopamine levels, your best bet for allergic reactions is over-the-counter medications.

Using nasal spray frequently can be detrimental to your health.

This one is a profound truth. Although nasal decongestant sprays can be effective, they are not appropriate for long-term care for allergy symptoms. These treatments can cause serious harm if patients do not use them properly. These sprays contain chemicals that shrink the enlarged blood vessels, causing congestion. After more than a few days of use, those blood vessels can become dependent on the drugs causing you to need to use more and more of it to get the same results. This condition is called the rebound phenomenon, and over time, it can lead to chronic sinusitis. Alternatively, try some other remedies like oral histamines or decongestants. If you opt for a nasal spray, use nasal corticosteroids rather than decongestants because they effectively relieve symptoms and do not carry the same risk.

It is best to be proactive and keep a consistent treatment plan to manage your symptoms when it comes to seasonal allergies. If you have questions about what is best for you, be sure to consult the offices of PREMIER FAMILY PHYSICIANS to learn more about allergies and the best way to treat yours.

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Health

An Inside Look Into Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Multiple vertebrae make up the spinal canal and between each bone is an opening called the spinal space. The spinal canal protects the spinal cord and nerve roots from any mechanical damage and the opening where the spinal cord spaces. However, the space can become narrow along any part of the spine due to various reasons, such as osteoarthritis, which causes spine degeneration. The commonly affected areas include the neck and lower back region. Patients with lumbar spinal stenosis in Huntington may experience back pain, leg weakness, and loss of sensation in the leg or foot.

What causes lumbar spinal stenosis?

The spinal space can become narrow due to wear and tear that occurs as you advance in age. Although some people are born with a smaller spinal space, most of the time, the narrowing is a result of something. Here are some of the causes of spinal stenosis.

  • Herniated discs

The vertebral column contains small discs which act as shock absorbers and offer support to the spine. These discs have a tough outer covering called the annulus, covering the inner soft materials or nucleus. However, the membrane can develop a weak spot, and the disc can push through into the spinal space. The spinal space is limited, and the presence of the disc there narrows the canal even more. Most patients with a herniated disc have no symptoms, but if the disc presses on a nerve, it produces pain, among other symptoms like numbness and muscle weakness.

  • Bone overgrowth

Age-related problems such as osteoarthritis cause wear and tear damage to bones in your body. They can also affect your spine area. Bone degeneration prompts bone spur formation, which may occur in the spinal canal. Other conditions like Paget’s disease are also associated with bone spurs formation along the spine.

  • Abnormal growths

Although this hardly occurs, tumors can grow inside the spinal cord, narrowing the space. Imaging tests such as Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging help your doctor identify the tumors.

  • Thickened ligaments

Ligaments are rigid structures that hold the vertebrae in place. They may thicken and become stiff as you grow older. Because of their increased volume, they occupy more space, including the spinal canal. 

What is the treatment for spinal stenosis?

Lumbar spinal stenosis has no cure, but specialists use different treatment methods to manage symptoms. The type of treatment approach your doctor uses depends on the extremity of your symptoms and other factors like your overall well-being. Your doctor can use various treatment methods, including:

Medications

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers. These include drugs such as ibuprofen which your doctor may recommend to offer pain relief temporarily.
  • Antidepressants can be an option if the pain is constant and severe. Examples of these drugs include amitriptyline.

Physical therapy

Alongside medication, physical therapy can be used to reduce pain and prevent muscle weakness. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that help strengthen your muscle improve your balance and your spine’s flexibility.

Sometimes surgery is an option for patients who don’t find relief with other conservative treatments. If you want to learn more about lumbar spinal stenosis, schedule for consultation with your doctor at George Kakoulides, MD.

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Health

Understanding the Use of Botox Injections in Dentistry

Botox injections are known for minimizing fine lines and facial wrinkles. However, doctors use these injections to address other problems such as chronic migraine, hyperhidrosis, eye twitching, bladder dysfunction, and painful neck contractions (cervical dystonia). Botox injections contain a toxin produced by a microbe that causes botulism which temporarily prevents muscle movements. Today, dentists use Ardsley Botox for patients with bruxism, high lip lines, bruxism, temporomandibular joint disorder, and ill-fitting dentures due to shifting jaw muscles.

How to prepare for a Botox injection

An initial consultation with your doctor is an integral part of the preparations. Discussing with your specialist allows you to understand what issues Botox injections can and cannot address. It is always a great way to clear any uncertainties and gain more insight into what treatment entails. During a consultation, your doctor may ask you several questions, including whether you have had Botox injections in recent months and if you are currently taking allergy medications and muscle relaxants. Although Botox injections are usually safe when placed precisely, pregnant and breastfeeding moms are not good candidates.

Pre instructions for Botox

  • Do take any alcoholic products at least 24 hours before treatment, as doing so increases your risk of bruising.
  • Discontinue the use of fish oil supplements, vitamin E, and anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen since they have blood-thinning properties and can cause bruising and swelling. Discuss with your doctor if your medical condition does not allow you to stop using these medications.
  • Notify your specialist if you have a history of cold sores. If this is the case, your doctor may require that you take antiviral medication before treatment.

Are there any risks?

Treatment is relatively safe when working with a certified and skilled doctor. Even so, some side effects or complications may result after Botox injections. They include:

  • Pain and swelling at the treated area
  • Bruising
  • Crooked smile
  • Headache

What to expect during a Botox procedure

Although most patients tolerate the discomfort during treatment, some prefer numbing, especially those whose palms are soles are treated for hidrosis. The doctor may use topical anesthesia or ice to desensitize the treatment area. Treatment can be performed in your doctor’s office, where a thin needle is used to inject small amounts of the toxin into your muscles. You may need several injections depending on your problem or the extent of the treated area. You may feel a sudden, sharp sting and some pressure as the doctor inserts the needle.

Post instructions for Botox

  • Avoid massaging or rubbing the injection site as this may cause the toxin to spread into other areas.
  • Do not engage in strenuous activities like weight lifting for at least 24 hours.
  • Sometimes the doctor may ask you to maintain an upright position at least four hours after treatment.

How long do the results last?

Most patients experience relief from symptoms at least one to three days after treatment. The results are temporary and usually last for three to six months, and subsequent treatments may be needed to maintain the effects.

If you want to learn how to benefit from Botox injections, consult with your specialist today at Ardsley Dental Spa. 

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Health

Benefits of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)

Memorial City is a neighborhood located in the Memorial Area of Houston. It is a very recent district, but it still has good medical facilities. You will find great birth control specialists in the town. Memorial City birth control offers long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs). LARCs are implanted devices that prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation (releasing an egg from the ovaries) or making it too hard for sperm to reach the egg for fertilization. LARCs are almost as effective at preventing pregnancy as sterilization. 

There are several types of LARCs available, and they include:

  • Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
  • Implanted devices (such as the implant)
  • Injectable contraceptives (such as Depo-Provera)

Every kind of LARC has its benefits and drawbacks. It would be best if you spoke to your health care provider about the best option for you. 

The following are some of the benefits of using LARCs:

  • Effectiveness

LARCs are the most effective reversible contraceptives available. They are more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Their high success rate is attributed to their durability.

  • Durability

LARCs can remain in the body for a long time without being affected by the environment, which means they are effective for several years, unlike birth control methods that depend on regular contraceptives such as birth control pills. Their effectiveness is enhanced when a health care provider wholly covers them during administration.

  • Convenience

LARCs have no daily requirement to remain effective, which means you don’t have to think about contraceptives during the week. It is an excellent option for women who forget to take their birth control pills. You can even use it as an emergency contraceptive if you missed taking your regular contraceptives and had unprotected sex.

  • Duration of Effectiveness

LARCs can be used for several years to come. It can be an excellent option for women who plan long-term or want a permanent method of contraception. Long-term usage of LARCs makes you very unlikely to get pregnant as they can last up to 12 years.

  • Ease of Use

LARCs are very easy to use and require no maintenance, unlike birth control pills that need to be taken daily at the same time. No frequent follow-up visits or clinic appointments are necessary. Their ease of use makes them a preferred contraceptive method for many women.

Most women can use LARCs without any problems. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before getting one:

  • You should not use LARCs if you have an irregular menstrual cycle as they might be less effective.
  • If you have a pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) history, you should not use LARCs.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to copper, you should not use an IUD.
  • If you are at high risk for contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), you should not use implantable contraceptives.

The bottom line is that LARCs are highly effective contraceptives that offer many benefits to women. They are convenient, easy to use, and have a long duration of effect. If you are looking for a reliable contraceptive method, LARCs should be your top choice. Speak to your health care provider today to find out more about these amazing devices.

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Health

How to Recover Faster After An Auto Accident

There are many complications associated with auto injuries. Although the healing process is different for every patient, you should give your auto accident injury in Woodbury enough time and care to recover completely. It is not wise to compare your situation with other patients, even if you were involved in the same accident. Many factors apart from injury severity determine the speed of recovery, including preexisting health conditions. Fortunately, there are actions you can take upon involvement in an auto accident to help manage any resulting injury, for example:

  • Seek emergency medical care

Many patients assume that emergency care is only for those with visible life-threatening symptoms. Being in pain is not the only reason you should see a doctor. Many complications are associated with auto accidents, like concussions that may not present immediately after the accident. Failure to seek emergency medical care may cause your symptoms to progress without your knowledge of their existence and thus pose even more severe complications. Seeing a doctor after an auto accident is the first action to take if you want to confirm that you are on the safe side. Doctors conduct thorough tests to ensure no underlying injuries may pose a threat later.

  • Strictly follow the treatment plan that your doctor will prescribe to you.

Many patients lack the patients to complete the recovery process, especially when they are not seeing any progress. Moreover, being in pain makes people desperate and causes them to seek alternative care. You must remain vigilant in following your treatment plan because it is the only way to recover completely. Take all necessary actions to ensure that your treatment plan does not encounter any hindrances. For example, your doctor may recommend taking some time off work so that your body has ample time to heal and rest. Although you might be taking all the necessary medications, do not forget to incorporate physical therapy in your treatment. This multidisciplinary approach will ensure all-around recovery and help your stay connected to your body.

  • Rest

There is no better way to recover from strenuous activity than getting adequate rest. It is essential to limit strenuous activities and take them easy for a few days. It is not uncommon for doctors to recommend bed rest to auto accident patients. Enough rest will help in muscle and tissue repair. Adequate sleep helps reduce the risk of further injuring yourself. Additionally, sleep helps stimulate blood flow, a crucial part of healing.

  • Exercise, stretch, and eat healthily

It is a mistake to undermine the importance of exercise and stretching in recovery. Exercising will significantly increase your range of motion, especially if your muscles and joints were injured in the accident. However, it would be best to be aware of your limits so that you do not cause further damage to your body parts during the exercises. Eating healthy and staying hydrated will help fuel your body into faster recovery. Develop a strict meal plan to repair any tissue damage and provide the necessary energy levels to keep you going.

Contact Woodbury Spine to schedule an auto-accident checkup to confirm if your body is still in good shape after the accident.

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Health

What Does a Root Canal Involve?

There are a few dental cases where you may require a root canal treatment to preserve your oral health. Usually, your provider recommends a root canal when you have an infection or tooth injury. The treatment prevents the further spread of the infection to healthy teeth, lowers the risk of jawbone degeneration, and improves the teeth’s appearance.

Your provider recommends a root canal to preserve your teeth and avoid extraction. If you have a damaged or infected tooth, you can benefit from root canals in Houston. Call The Dental Design Studios today to schedule your consultation.

What are root canals?

 Root canals are an endodontic treatment to conserve an infected or injured permanent tooth. The procedure involves your provider removing the soft center of your tooth, the pulp. The pulp is only helpful while your teeth develop; however, it does not provide any other benefits afterward.

After the pulp removal, place a crown to cover your teeth cap and enhance teeth functions, including chewing, biting, and stopping further harm.

What dental issues do root canals fix?

Your provider recommends a root canal to treat infected and destroyed tooth pulp caused by:

  • Oral trauma
  • Deep cavities
  • Multiple dental procedures such as fillings or bonding
  • Chips or fractures

During the developing stage, an infected pulp may not cause any symptoms. But as the problem advances, you may feel a heat sensation in your gums, pain, or swelling that does not go away with over-the-counter medications or ice.

What does a root canal procedure involve?

A root canal treatment at The Dental Design Studios involves two appointments with a week gap.

The first appointment

Your provider first performs an oral exam and asks questions regarding your symptoms. Then takes multiple oral X-ray images to review your tooth and find out the extent of the infection.

Dr. Hernandez then administers local anesthesia to prevent discomfort. She reaches the damaged tooth and gently removes the pulp. Next, she rinses the tooth center with an antibiotic solution. The solution removes harmful bacteria and minimizes the risk of another infection.

Then she fills up the tooth with a sponge-like material, gutta-percha. After the gutta-percha dries, she takes your tooth impressions. Next, she sends the impressions to a lab to design a custom crown.

When leaving the office, Dr. Hernandez places a temporary crown on the treated tooth.

Second appointment

You return to The Dental Design Studio office a week later, where your provider removes the temporary crown and replaces it with a permanent one. She then fixes the crown in place, evaluates your bite, and provides care instructions.

What to expect during recovery?

You can expect to experience some swelling and elevated sensitivity after the root canal treatment. It would be best to avoid biting down or chewing within the first few days of your treatment. You should also take the prescribed medications and brush and floss gently around the treated part.

Talk to a root canal specialist today

Root canals help preserve your oral health without having to extract damaged teeth. The treatment also prevents the infection from spreading to the adjacent teeth. Contact The Dental Design Studio today to learn more about a root canal procedure.

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Health

An Expert Guide to Sciatica

Sciatica condition arises from the pinched sciatic nerve. It is characterized by symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the buttocks, thigh, and leg on one side of your body. Some estimates suggest that more than 12% of adults will experience this condition at least once in their lifetime. In Shrewsbury, New Jersey, you’ll find reliable sciatica specialists ready to diagnose and put you in the proper treatment. Thus, book an appointment with the best center for sciatica in Shrewsbury. Let’s break things down.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that causes pain that runs from your lower back into the backs of your thighs. Several different conditions can cause this pain. The most common cause is a herniated disc in the spine pressing on the nerve as it exits from two vertebrae. In other cases, sciatica may be due to spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, or piriformis syndrome. These all manifest themselves physically, but there are some things you can do to help relieve your symptoms and make life more comfortable.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica usually presents itself with pain, tingling, or numbness along the length of your sciatic nerve. You might have all three symptoms at once, or just one or two – but they should be constant unless you are currently experiencing a reprieve from your condition. These symptoms can worsen when you’re sitting down for long periods, coughing or sneezing, and they can make it difficult to walk, stand or climb stairs.

Treatment for Sciatica

There are several different treatments available for those who suffer from sciatica. The most crucial first step is seeing your doctor and finding out what’s causing your pain. Your doctor can help you rule out some possibilities and determine which treatments will work best for your specific condition.

There are two standard treatment methods currently available, with epidural injections of steroids proving one of the most popular options. Other treatments include physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and massage.

Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections are one of the most common treatments for sciatica. A physician will inject a corticosteroid medication into the epidural space around the spinal cord. This can help to reduce inflammation and relieve some of the pain.

Physical Therapy

Using stretching, heat treatments, and other therapies to relieve tension on the sciatic nerve can help reduce your discomfort. This is usually done in conjunction with muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory medications. Sometimes physical therapy sessions are supervised; sometimes, they involve exercises that you can do at home.

Spinal Decompression

This treatment method has grown in popularity over the past few years. It involves using a machine to pull your spine to decompress discs and other structures. This allows for better spinal fluid movement, which should help reduce the pressure on your sciatic nerve and provide you with some relief from sciatica symptoms.

Sciatica is a condition that many different factors can cause, but the most common cause of this debilitating pain is some herniated disc in the spine. Luckily there are treatments available for those who suffer from sciatica. Some people may experience relief with steroid injections, while others need physical therapy.

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Health

A DENTAL HYGIENE COLLEGE: FINDING THE BEST PROGRAM

Picking out a career path is never easy. Even when you are passionate about something, picking out a college and course is never easy. Both these choices can make or break your career. When your aim is to become a dental hygienist, there are many options that you can choose from. Even though there are a plethora of colleges and courses out there, they might not always be an excellent choice for your career. Aplus Dental Institute has designed an intensive 18-month full-time diploma which provides the students with overall growth. The program has been designed keeping in mind, the skills that the students would require when they step out of the college. Here is what makes their program stand out.

Necessary Accreditation

When looking at various courses, accreditation is the one thing you should look at. Accreditation can make a whole lot of difference. The course should be accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada. Only the top schools get this accreditation under the National Association of Career Colleges. The diploma degree offered by the Institute has been accredited.

Importance of Practical Skills

The job of a dental hygienist includes preventing oral disease and promoting oral health. This is done by working alongside dentists and other healthcare providers. To collaborate with them, you need the required skill set. Every course can provide you with theoretical knowledge. When it comes to performing the required procedure, the gap between practical knowledge and theoretical knowledge becomes quite evident. To avoid this gap, the course places importance on the acquisition of practical skills.

According to the curriculum, various practical skills are taught. The ability to assess and record the overall oral health of the client, administering local anaesthesia, ability to perform intra-oral radiology, taking impressions for the construction of mouth guards and casts, applying dental sealants and administering fluoride, are a few of these abilities.

Reputed and Experienced Faculty

Even when the course offered is good, it can become a complete disaster when the faculty is not right. The faculty at A Plus has been handpicked to facilitate learning. They are some of the best and leading names in the dental industry. They are working professionals who are highly skilled and are well aware of the latest technologies. With such an experienced faculty by your side, you know you are bound to get the best learning possible.

Learning Soft Skills 

As a dental hygienist, you have to interact with people. Communication and motivation skills can really have a significant impact on your dental hygiene practice. The program designed by A Plus Dental Institute keeps all of this in mind. It works to prepare the student for the life outside the institute. They inculcate skills that will help them to establish themselves professionally and flourish. Hence, learning soft skills will improve the abilities of the students. Such skills are not given due attention by most courses. This is one of the things that makes the curriculum offered to stand out.

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Health

How to Care For a Wound

A wound is an injury that occurs when the skin is broken. It can be a simple cut or a more severe laceration. Regardless of the extent of a wound, speed is essential in caring for it. Any cut needs to be cleaned and covered with a sterile bandage as soon as possible. There are many things to keep in mind when taking care of your wound, such as how long you should clean off the blood or whether or not you need stitches. Remember to get treatment for any open wounds to avoid infection and scarring. If you have any deep tissue wounds, remember to see a Bakersfield wound care specialist for proper treatment.

Here are some tips on how to care for a wound.

  • Remove Any Debris

The first step to caring for a wound is removing debris. Try using soap and water to get rid of any blood or dirt. Ensure that you are cleaning the entire area, including under the nails. Next is removing dead tissue from the wound with tweezers and antibacterial wipes.

  • Clean It

The first step in caring for a wound is to clean it thoroughly. Use warm water and soap to clean the area around the wound. If there is any dirt or debris in the wound, use a saline solution or tweezers to remove it. Do not use hydrogen peroxide, as this can damage the tissue.

  • Cover The Wound

Once the wound is cleaned, cover it with a bandage. Do not use adhesive bandages on any deep wounds or puncture wounds. Instead, place gauze over the wound and secure it in place with medical tape. If you need stitches, never try to stitch up your wound! Instead, head over to an emergency room for professional treatment.

  •  Get a Tetanus Vaccine

An open wound can lead to tetanus, which is a dangerous disease. It would help if you got a tetanus vaccine once your wound has healed to ensure this does not happen. If you do not know when you last received one of these vaccines, it is probably best to try and locate the records or talk with your primary care physician about getting another one.

  • Monitor the Wound

If your wound is on an arm or leg, you will need to monitor it for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, and pus drainage. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away. Infected wounds often require antibiotics for treatment.

  • Avoid Foods That Slow Healing

Some foods can slow the healing process of a wound. These include processed foods, sugary foods, and alcoholic beverages. Instead, try to eat a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables. Foods rich in protein and zinc are especially beneficial for wound healing.

In summary, a wound is an injury that occurs when the skin is broken. To care for your wound, remove any debris and clean the wound. Once you clean your wound, cover it and get a tetanus vaccine. 

Also, monitor the wound for any signs of infection and avoid antiseptics and foods that slow down healing.

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Health

How Do We Know If We Have Lice And How To Get Rid Of It?

 

The first thing Lice Doctors San Jose, CA notice is a persistent itch on the head (the saliva of the louse has a substance that causes itching or itching, this itching is the result of an allergic reaction). Sometimes it takes children several weeks to start scratching. However, they may complain that things are moving or tickling their heads.

The presence of LIENDRES hooked on the hair base must be checked. Before hatching, they appear little yellow-, brown- or mustard-colored dots. Lice spawn on hair strands near the scalp, where the temperature is perfect for keeping them warm until hatching. Nits look like a kind of dandruff, except that they cannot be removed simply by brushing or shaking the hair. After hatching, the outer shell appears white or transparent and remains firmly attached to the hair strand. This is the stage when it is easiest to detect lice since as the hair grows, the shells of the nits move outwards, away from the scalp.

Tips On How To Find Out If You Have Lice

    • We can also pass the den (special comb for lice) since it is trapped.
    • We can also identify live lice directly or with a magnifying glass and examine good lighting. They are no bigger than sesame seeds, and their color ranges from grayish-white to cinnamon.
    • In the event of an epidemic, the hair will be checked twice a week, preferably behind the ears and at the nape of the neck. The revision will be done with wet hair and the head on the wash or a white surface to see them better.
    • They are often mistaken for dandruff or seborrheic flakes, but they are discarded because they come off quickly, and dandruff does not have the pearly sheen of nits.
    • You can see red bumps like an abscess caused by scratching. Some children have only mildly irritated skin on the scalp, but others develop more bothersome rashes.
  • One of the most common symptoms of head lice according to Lice Doctors San Jose, CA, apart from continuous itching and scratching, is loss of sleep. The child with lice cannot sleep. And not only because of the itch, but because of the irritation of the head

 

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