Itching Scalp
ITCHING SCALP: DIRTY DISEASE OR MINOR IRRITATION
Few things in life carry the embarrassment and annoyance of an itching scalp. While the problem of itching scalp may not seem like a large or dangerous issue, it can present a wide variety of problems for sufferers and can also be a sign of more serious health concerns. Understanding what itching scalp is and how to manage the matter can help alleviate social anxiety and improve overall health.
WHAT IS ITCHY SCALP?
Scalp itch most generally refers to an irritating tingling feeling that can occur all over or in isolated patches of skin covering the skull. Usually associated with these sensations is an overwhelming need to alleviate discomfort by scratching the affected area. Once the process of scratching becomes recurrent, itching sensations typically amplify due to increased inflammation from lacerations caused by fingernails.
CAUSES AND TREATMENTS
There are several reasons for which a person might experience itching scalp. Most are simple causes with simple solutions. Less commonly, scalp itch is a possible indicator of serious health concerns. Below is a brief description of frequent causes for this type of condition:
DANDRUFF
Skin sloughing is a natural process in which new skin cell production forces the body to shed old, dead cells. When this occurs under normal circumstances, itchiness is not likely. However, for individuals who suffer from dandruff, skin cells do not flake. Instead, they remain adhered to the scalp and create an annoying itching sensation. Once an individual scratches patches of clustered skin; white flakes become apparent in the hair and often on dark colored clothing.
TREATMENT
Most cases of dandruff may be resolved by changing shampoos or by applying specially formulated hair care medications to an affected scalp. It is important to refrain from scratching as this action only encourages more cell growth and creates unpleasant cuts on the scalp.
PSORIASIS
Psoriasis is a condition that plagues millions. Many times a victim will experience itching and burning in most areas of the body including the scalp. As psoriasis causes the immune system to generate new skin growth at an unnecessary rate, old and new skin cells begin to accumulate causing discomfort and embarrassing flaking.
TREATMENT
Moisturizers and medicated creams may be used to lessen inflammation and dryness associated with psoriasis, but there is currently no known cure for the condition.
HEAD LICE
Possibly the most taboo cause of scalp itch centers on tiny parasitic insects that feed off of human blood. Living in safety amidst a mass of hair, head lice lay eggs and multiply rapidly. Scalp itch is generally caused by lice movement under the hair and on the skin. Infestation can occur easily as lice can jump from head to head and attach themselves to shared clothing.
TREATMENT
Ridding the scalp of these nuisances proves difficult and may require decontamination of all household furnishings. Over the counter medications designed to combat head lice may be purchased for use on the scalp and items in your home.
ECZEMA
As an inclusive name for varied skin disorders, eczema frequently presents itself as inflammation of the skin. Common conditions that qualify as eczema are allergic reactions on the skin and severe dryness of skin.
TREATMENT
While there isn’t a common cure for these types of skin conditions, eczema symptoms like itching and burning, may be treated with corticosteroids and antihistamines.
RINGWORM
Recognizable by its distinctive circular rings left on skin surfaces, ringworm or dermatophytosis is a fungal infection. Caused by fungus lurking in warm, moist environments, this type of skin condition requires application of anti fungal medications and preventative care.
TREATMENT
Most physicians recommend oral and topical antifungal application to the scalp and suggest that good hygiene is necessary to eliminate new or increased growth of fungi.
Regardless of cause, consulting with your doctor is the best way to determine how the issue can be addressed. While there are no guaranteed cures, there are ways to alleviate embarrassment and irritation associated with this type of condition.