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What Causes Severe Itching On The Scalp?

Posted on Fri, 4 Aug 2017

Question: My scalp suddenly started itching last night. It has been itching off and on all day, and now tonight is itching like crazy!! I do not see lice; but I as I have never had lice, I am not familiar with the symptoms or signs. I tried using Scalpicin in case it was dry scalp, but that helped only very little.
What is wrong??

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (34 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Answer few questions

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for being at HealthcareMagic
Itching in the scalp can be due to multiple reasons.
I need to ask you few questions so that I can help you better.
Do you have dandruff or flaky scalp?
Is itching in the scalp associated with any bumps?
Do you aplenty hair dye?
Do you have diabetes ?
Have you recently beed on any new medicine or changed any medicine?
Kindly revert with the answers.
Regards
Dr Asmeet

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (4 hours later)

Hello.

I do have a flaky scalp, but it seems worse than my normal flaky scalp. There are no bumps. I have no hair XXXXXXX I do NOT have diabetes. I have not changed medications recently.

Should I go ahead and treat for lice tomorrow? It is really itching!

XXXX

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Could be seborrhoeic dermatitis, cortisone lotion and antihistaminic

Detailed Answer:
According to your complaints it could be seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Before treating for lice apply topical steroid like cortisone lotion on the itchy areas of the scalp twice daily and take antihistaminic like tablet Cetrizine 10 mg twice daily for 5 days.
If it doesn't improve in 4-5 days consult a doctor and go for clinical examination to confirm lice infection and start treatment accordingly.

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. Nagamani Ng