Itchy scalp can be a common problem for many people, but it should not be ignored as it could indicate something serious.
Do you have the habit of scratching your head frequently and don’t know what it is? Itchy scalp can be quite common, affecting many people for a variety of reasons. When you are a child, scratching your head is already considered synonymous with lice, but in adulthood this discomfort can have several other causes, and cause other symptoms, such as peeling, redness and irritation in the region.
Among the main causes of itchy scalp, we can mention fungal infections, dandruff, allergies, mycoses and even serious diseases, such as skin cancer, for example. Therefore, itchy head should not be ignored. That’s why it’s always a good idea to see a doctor to identify the real cause of the problem and thus obtain the most appropriate treatment.
Therefore, today we will better understand the causes of itchy scalp and how to alleviate the discomfort in each case.
Itchy scalp
Generally, when we talk about itchy scalp, people suggest two main causes: lice and dandruff. And really, these two factors cause this discomfort. But the truth is that an itchy scalp can indicate several other problems, even more serious than dandruff. So, when you feel your scalp itch, don’t ignore this symptom.
In addition to itching being a nuisance in itself, it can also end up injuring the scalp, further aggravating the problem. This is because through the wounds, it can end up causing more serious infections, as it facilitates the entry of bacteria from the nails.
However, it is possible to alleviate the itching and even treat the cause. However, to do this it is first necessary to identify what is causing the itchy scalp, and the only person who can do this is a dermatologist.
Main causes of itchy scalp
So, below we will learn about the main causes of itchy scalp, starting with the most common:
Seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is what we popularly call dandruff. It is a change in the skin, which results in itching, peeling and the appearance of spots on the skin, being one of the most common scalp problems.
To this day, it is not known exactly what causes dandruff. However, studies already point to a relationship between the production of sebum on the scalp and an infection caused by fungi, generally linked to a weakening of the immune system or stress. There is no definitive cure for the problem, and it can return throughout life.
But, fortunately, the symptoms can be controlled through the use of shampoos suitable for treating dandruff, based on ketoconazole, cyclopiroxolamine, selenium sulfate, acetysalicylic acid and corticosteroid remedies in cases of acute crisis. In addition to, of course, correct hygiene of the region.
Scalp ringworm
A Ringworm of the head, known as scalp ringworm, is an infection caused by fungi. This infection’s main symptom is itchy scalp, but also dandruff and yellow crusts on the head, as well as hair loss. But beyond that, in some cases it can also result in sore neck pain, as a response from the body to fight the infection.
Therefore, as it is a mycosis of fungal origin, it can be transmitted to other people. So, to prevent this from happening, the ideal is to avoid sharing objects such as combs, towels or hats with someone who has the disease.
In this case, treatment is carried out using antifungal medicines, such as Terbinafine or Griseofulvin. But also with the use of shampoos that have antifungal formulas, such as Ketoconazole, for example.
Pediculosis
The so-called pediculosis is nothing more than an infestation of lice, which can cause intense itching on the scalp. This problem is most common in school-age children, however it can also happen to adults. Lice can be easily passed to other people through direct contact with the hair or objects such as combs, hats or pillows of someone who has lice.
If this is the case, the treatment consists of using a 5% Permethrin-based shampoo to get rid of the lice, in addition to using a fine-toothed comb regularly to remove them.
Allergies
Some people have sensitive scalps, and the use of some irritating cosmetic products, such as shampoos and conditioners, chemicals, such as dyes or even sun exposure can end up causing allergies. These, in turn, can cause itching, redness and flaking in the scalp region.
In this case, the recommendation is to seek a specialist doctor to confirm whether the cause of the itching is indeed an allergy, and if so, confirm what caused it. The treatment of allergies in this region involves the use of corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone or betamethasone, antihistamine medications or the application of creams and ointments to alleviate the allergy. In addition, of course, stopping use of the product that caused the allergic reaction.
Urticaria
These are reddish lumps that cause very intense itching and can appear anywhere on the skin, including the scalp. However, hives usually disappear within a few hours, causing momentary discomfort. However, if they appear coming and going for more than 6 weeks, it may be a case of chronic urticaria, that is, long-lasting. They normally disappear on their own, but if they last for a long time, a doctor should be consulted to recommend effective treatment.
Sarna
Scabies comes from an insect called the human itch mite. Therefore, if these insects penetrate the scalp it can cause intense itching, which is the main symptom of scabies. But this is not a common itch, but a very intense and agonizing discomfort. The diagnosis of scabies must be made by a dermatologist, who will recommend treatment, which is only carried out following a medical prescription.
Scalp psoriasis
Psoriasis is a very common skin disease. In the case of scalp psoriasis, around 50% of people experience the condition at some point in their lives. It is characterized by reddish spots in the region, along with flaking similar to dandruff, silvery-white scales and a dry scalp. Typically, it is accompanied by itching, which can be mild or intense. Treatment is carried out using medicated shampoos or medicines prescribed by a dermatologist, such as specific ointments for psoriasis.
Nervous problem
An itchy scalp that is intense and without signs of a rash can be a symptom of a nervous problem, such as neuropathy, for example. It is a problem along a nerve, caused by damage, disease or abnormality in the functioning of the nerve. Among the diseases that can affect the nerves in this way are herpes and diabetes. In this case, only a doctor can diagnose the disease and recommend treatment.
Skin cancer
If skin cancer develops on the scalp, it can cause intense itching. Therefore, it is very important to see a doctor as soon as possible to identify the cause. If it is indeed cancer, the sooner it is discovered, the greater the chances of a cure thanks to the correct treatment.
How to relieve itchy scalp
Regardless of the cause of the itchy scalp, and the specific treatment, the main way to alleviate the discomfort is by washing the area correctly.
Therefore, it is recommended to wash your hair regularly, but the amount of times will depend on your hair type. For example, those who have a naturally oily scalp and spend a long period of time without washing their hair tend to make it more oily, favoring the appearance of dandruff. On the other hand, those who have dry hair and wash it many times a week leave their hair dry and more prone to itching. Therefore, the ideal is to find the balance of washes according to your hair type.
Washing the scalp also requires certain care. The ideal is to use a shampoo without parabens or irritating substances, applying it directly to the scalp and massaging gently with your fingertips. This way, the product will naturally go down the length of the hair, removing all residue. Finally, conditioner or moisturizing mask should be applied, but only along the length of the hair, avoiding the scalp.
Furthermore, for the treatment to be successful, take care to remove the shampoo and conditioner well after washing so that there is no residue left on the scalp. Also avoid using very hot water when washing. And last but not least, reduce your consumption of alcoholic beverages and fatty foods that can worsen seborrheic dermatitis. As well as stressful situations.
Anyway, what did you think of this article? In fact, take the opportunity to also check out Sensitive scalp – Main aggravating factors and how to treat the problem.
Sources: Tua Saúde Derma Club L’OFFICIEL
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