Itchy Scalp

People who are not experts in the medical field often make guesses as to why someone may have an itchy scalp. From recommending specific haircare solutions to attributing it to an undiagnosed allergy, there are a variety of theories that can be confusing to sort through and decide which, if any, is accurate.

Dandruff

Dandruff is an uncomfortable condition that can cause itching on the scalp. Unfortunately, scratching the scalp can make the flakes even more visible, especially in dark hair or clothing.

If you’re feeling self-conscious about your dandruff, don’t worry. It’s a common issue and can be treated. However, it’s essential to understand what’s causing it. If your scalp skin becomes scaly or crusty, you should visit a doctor who can suggest ways to treat it. Unfortunately, the more you scratch your scalp, the worse the condition may become.

Dandruff occurs when the scalp sheds old and dead skin cells onto the scalp. An overproduction of skin oil or various skin conditions such as dermatitis, Psoriasis, or Eczema can cause it.

Your hair can accumulate dead skin cells if not washed often enough, resulting in an outbreak of dandruff. On the other hand, washing your hair too frequently can lead to scalp irritation. Factors such as heat, cold, stress, and using certain hair products can also contribute to dandruff.

Dandruff is most commonly treated with anti-dandruff shampoos. A doctor can advise you on the best option based on the variety of options available.

While washing your hair, avoid using your fingernails to scrub your scalp, as this could result in flaky skin. Additionally, allow the shampoo to sit on your head for five minutes before rinsing it off.

Therefore, it is essential to discontinue using hair products that may be causing your dandruff to allow your anti-dandruff shampoo to take effect.

A chronic skin condition, psoriasis causes the skin to become inflamed and red, with thick, scaly patches forming. It can be itchy and uncomfortable, and scratching the itch can worsen it. In some cases, the affected areas may become so inflamed that they bleed or crack, and temporary hair loss may occur in some cases.

Psoriasis is caused by skin cells that are replaced much quicker than usual. In a typical person, it takes up to four weeks for the skin to be replaced, but in people with Psoriasis, this process occurs in as little as three days.

Psoriasis is caused by issues with the immune system, which causes cells that typically fight off bacteria to attack healthy cells instead. This causes the skin to create a new layer much faster than usual and can be inherited genetically. Physical injuries, alcohol, smoking, stress, and other lifestyle factors can also trigger psoriasis.

To treat Psoriasis, the following treatments are possible

• Topical medications are typically applied directly to the affected area and work to reduce inflammation and itching.
  
  
• Phototherapy, or light therapy, uses ultraviolet light to slow the growth of skin cells.
  
  
• Oral and injectable medications can be taken orally or injected into the body to reduce inflammation and treat Psoriasis.

Eczema is a skin condition often seen in the form of itchy, red, dry and cracked skin on various parts of the body, including the scalp. It is relatively common and can be very uncomfortable.

The severity of the itching can range from mild to unbearable, often resulting from an urge to scratch the area. It is possible to develop an infection from scratching the skin if it begins to crust, ooze, or become sore.

Those with dry skin are more prone to developing Eczema, with genetics playing a role - it is common for Eczema to be passed down from one or both parents.

Several factors can cause eczema, including the following:

• Allergies
  
  
• Cold
  
  
• Soap/detergent
  
  
• Heat
  
  
• Stress
  
  
• Sweat
  
  
• Material
  
  
• Dust

Treatment for Eczema usually includes avoiding triggers that can cause flare-ups, such as certain fabrics, soaps, and detergents. Additionally, it is recommended to use moisturisers, creams, and ointments to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, oral or topical medications such as corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and immunosuppressants may be prescribed.

Head lice are not just known to affect the young but can be found on the scalps of people of all ages. Check your hair regularly to look for lice or their eggs; if you experience any itching, this could indicate that lice are present.

Contrary to what many think, head lice are not exclusively a sign of bad hygiene, nor do they prefer dirty or clean hair. In reality, they do not have any preferences and can latch onto anyone.

Head lice can only be spread through direct contact with another person. As they do not have wings, they must be passed on through touching another person's head.

To tackle head lice, you should invest in a nit comb and use it to detect them. Your doctor can also advise on the best specialist shampoo to kill the lice. It can take up to a week for the eggs to hatch, so applying the shampoo twice a week is recommended to eliminate them effectively.

An itchy scalp can have several possible causes, as seen from the explanations above. It’s best to consult a physician from Mobidoctor to help you pinpoint the cause of your itchy scalp. Knowing your exact diagnosis will guide you in treating your itchy scalp condition effectively.

By consulting with a doctor about your itchy scalp, you can better understand what might be causing the issue and how to address it best. The doctor can provide you with a diagnosis and advise on how to treat the problem.

Connect with one of our doctors at Mobi Doctor with the click of a button and receive the care you require.

By consulting with a doctor about your itchy scalp, you can better understand what might be causing the issue and how to address it best. The doctor can provide you with a diagnosis and advise on how to treat the problem.

Connect with one of our doctors at Mobi Doctor with the click of a button and receive the care you require.