Olive oil might solve your lice problem

Q: My child has had allergies to many topical products. I am afraid to use a pesticide for her head lice. Can you recommend anything hypoallergenic?

A: Head lice are prevalent in children younger than 12. Most over-the-counter products contain pyrethrin or permethrin, insecticides that cannot be used on babies or women who are pregnant or nursing.

Olive oil has been effective in the treatment. Put the oil on the scalp in a thick coating and use a shower cap overnight. This suffocates the lice. In the morning, pick out the nits (eggs), which look like little specks, with a nit comb. Repeat the process in a week.

Wash all linens, clothing, brushes and teddy bears in hot water and bundle them all in a plastic bag for two weeks. Wash everything again in two weeks.

Clarification

Because of the questions and comments of readers about the question "Why would a woman need Flomax," in the Feb. 24 column, I need to clarify that Flomax does not have a profound effect on the cardiovascular system, as do the other alpha adrenergic blockers. I stated that it could lower the blood pressure as an added benefit for women who had urinary problems and hypertension; however, it was not intended to be a statement endorsing its use for that purpose. That was a statement about its possible side effects being beneficial as opposed to the side effects of other drugs, which can increase blood pressure.

Angela Neglia gives general answers to common questions. Her answers are not intended to replace the medical advice of a physician. E-mail questions to askRPh@hotmail.com or call toll free (877) 373-7850 and leave a message.