Nits or dandruff?

Hi - I just wanted to ask a quick question please. I am generally a very paranoid person, and have been working in a primary school for the last week, and have been very worried about getting nits. As far as I know no children had them, there was no outbreak - i am just concerned. I have always had dandruff, but now I am worried how I would know if I have nits? I am not itching, and the white specs seem to move easily through my hair when you run your finger along them. They also seem to be very small or irregular shapes. How do I tell the difference please? Thank you.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms and since it is non itchy it looks like dandruff and not lice or nits. Try medicated shampoos for dandruff. There are a number of over-the-counter shampoos available that can help. The most effective ingredients -- antimicrobials -- to look for are zinc pyridinethione, selenium sulfide, sulfur and ketoconazole (also available by prescription).

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.