What Your Itchy Scalp Has to Say
An irritated, itchy scalp is so much more than a nuisance! If you’ve found yourself constantly scratching or picking at your scalp, becoming distracted at work, or losing sleep because of your itching, burning, irritated scalp, don’t ignore it. We’ve been there! Your scalp is a very accurate indicator that something is wrong. Although it may feel like you will never get relief, there are cures for your ailment! All cures start with understanding why your scalp is driving you crazy. Though some of the underlying causes are simple and easy to remedy, others are more serious, even extremely dangerous.
Dandruff
If your scalp is dry, itchy, and flakey, then you may have dandruff. The causes of this condition vary: a chronic scalp disorder that replaces skin cells too quickly, poor hygiene, or even a weak immune system. The simplest treatment is a dandruff shampoo or scalp treatment. Try changing your hair treatments, talk to a dermatologist, or see your doctor about your general health to keep dandruff at bay.
Reaction to your hair products
Some hair care products, if not rinsed thoroughly from your hair, cause allergic reactions. If you have sensitive skin, there may be products that you should steer away from altogether. Allergic reactions tend to be common among those who dye their hair. If you have a rash wherever a product has touched your skin, then stop using that product. Ask your dermatologist if you are having a hard time identifying the offending product.
Hives
These red, extremely itchy bumps tend to go away within a few hours. Another form of allergic reaction, these usually appear after being triggered by a food or medication. If your hives stay longer than six weeks, they are a chronic version and should be treated by a dermatologist.
Head lice
Though lice sound about as uncomfortable and embarrassing as they actually are, this is a pretty common cause of scalp discomfort. Have someone closely examine your hair and scalp to see if there are small, white lice. If you do have lice, there are several pretty simple ways to treat them at home.
Scabies
If you have an extremely itchy scalp that keeps you up at night, you may have scabies. This condition is caused by a tiny bug called the human itch mite. It burrows into the scalp and makes for a very uncomfortable situation. See your doctor or dermatologist if you think you may have scabies. You will need a prescription treatment to get rid of it.
Scalp ringworm
Ringworm is not caused by a worm at all, so don’t let the name fool you. A fungal infection, ringworm causes an intensely itchy, red rash that usually forms a ring on or around your scalp. There is also sometimes hair loss. See your dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and the prescription medications you will need to treat the ringworm.
Nerve problem
If your scalp is simply really, really itchy and there is no rash or scaling, it may be a sign of nerve damage. There are diseases that can affect your nerves, such as diabetes or shingles. Scarring can cause nerve-damage as well. Speak to your dermatologist about your symptoms if you think this is the cause of your ailment.
Skin Cancer
When skin cancer is developing on your skin, it can itch. Though this is a cause of concern more often in those with little to no hair on their head, it is wise to check with your dermatologist if you ever have any concerns. They will be able to tell you if you should be concerned about cancer or if there is another cause of your itchy skin.
Naturally, there are other conditions that can cause an itchy scalp. Those on the list above are the most common, but a board-certified dermatologist will point you in the right direction if your itchy skin is generated by some other cause. They will also aid you in treating the issue creating your discomfort. Your skin is a very vocal organ and your itchy scalp has a lot to tell you!