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What Causes Significant Itching Of Scalp?

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Posted on Mon, 23 Feb 2015
Question: for several months, I have experienced significant itching of my scalp, primarily in the back of my head and on the sides; I do not have dandruff. what could be causing this and what is the remedy or something to use for relief?
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Answered by Dr. Urszula Stanko (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Itchy scalp is a common problem.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX,

I had gone through your question and understand your concerns.

Itchy scalp is a common problem. Your scalp is itching because there is probably an inflammation of the skin. It may, but also may not be associated with a rash or broken skin.

There are many causes like:

1. allergic reaction to a new hair product,

2. constant use of your traditional shampoo and conditioner also using it too often.

2. bacterial infection of the scalp. It looks like acne around the opening of a hair. In this case you may need an antibiotic.

3. if you have itchy, red, swollen patches on the head which can be found anywhere on the body this can be psoriasis,

4. Check your hair for head lice which can be eliminated with over-the-counter remedies.

5. Hypothyroidism. Symptoms like brittle hair, itchy scalp and hair loss may occur.

6. The season, during the winter, when it's cold

I would order for base line:
- try to eliminate all hair products that contain alcohol and search for a product for your hair/scalp type,
- try shampoos that contains salicylic acid. Also you can try over the counter anti itch scalp spray with hydrocortisone to relief itching.
- if you have rash or red patches you should contact dermatologist because there is a need to prescribe you an antibiotic.
- also do the blood test that measure the level of TSH to check if you do not have problems with thyroid.

Hope I have answered your question. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Urszula Stanko

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2014

Answered : 172 Questions

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What Causes Significant Itching Of Scalp?

Brief Answer: Itchy scalp is a common problem. Detailed Answer: Hello XXXX, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns. Itchy scalp is a common problem. Your scalp is itching because there is probably an inflammation of the skin. It may, but also may not be associated with a rash or broken skin. There are many causes like: 1. allergic reaction to a new hair product, 2. constant use of your traditional shampoo and conditioner also using it too often. 2. bacterial infection of the scalp. It looks like acne around the opening of a hair. In this case you may need an antibiotic. 3. if you have itchy, red, swollen patches on the head which can be found anywhere on the body this can be psoriasis, 4. Check your hair for head lice which can be eliminated with over-the-counter remedies. 5. Hypothyroidism. Symptoms like brittle hair, itchy scalp and hair loss may occur. 6. The season, during the winter, when it's cold I would order for base line: - try to eliminate all hair products that contain alcohol and search for a product for your hair/scalp type, - try shampoos that contains salicylic acid. Also you can try over the counter anti itch scalp spray with hydrocortisone to relief itching. - if you have rash or red patches you should contact dermatologist because there is a need to prescribe you an antibiotic. - also do the blood test that measure the level of TSH to check if you do not have problems with thyroid. Hope I have answered your question. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help.