päähdettä

Päähdettä is a Finnish term that translates to "head lice" in English. It refers to a common parasitic insect infestation that affects humans, specifically the scalp. Head lice are small, wingless insects that live in human hair and feed on blood from the scalp. They are highly contagious and spread through direct head-to-head contact or by sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, hats, or bedding.

The primary symptom of päähdettä is an itchy scalp, which is caused by an allergic reaction to the lice's saliva. Other signs can include a tickling sensation, difficulty sleeping, and the presence of nits (lice eggs) attached to hair shafts. Nits are tiny, oval-shaped and are often found close to the scalp. They are typically white or yellowish.

While päähdettä can be a nuisance and cause discomfort, it is not a serious health threat and does not transmit diseases. However, persistent scratching can lead to secondary bacterial infections of the scalp.

Treatment for päähdettä usually involves over-the-counter or prescription medications designed to kill lice and nits. These are often applied as shampoos, lotions, or rinses. Thorough combing of the hair with a fine-toothed comb after treatment is also crucial to remove any remaining lice or nits. Environmental cleaning, such as washing bedding and clothing in hot water and vacuuming, is also recommended to prevent re-infestation. Prevention strategies include avoiding head-to-head contact and not sharing personal items that come into contact with hair.