The scalp is the area above the face and neck and stretches from ear to ear. Layers of tissue, nerves, glands, blood vessels and skin form the scalp. It grows and anchors hair for the head. Several different conditions cause irritation, itching and damage to the scalp. Some scalp disorders are chronic and others respond to various treatment options.
Dandruff
Dandruff is a common condition involving the scalp. The symptoms associated with this condition include white flaking pieces of scalp skin and extreme itching. The skin flakes may fall to the shoulders and cause embarrassment for the individual affected by dandruff. Causes of dandruff include dry skin, irregular use of shampoo and eczema. Daily washing with a medicated shampoo will usually relieve the symptoms of dandruff. After discontinuing the medicated shampoo, the dandruff may return.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
A form of dandruff, called seborrheic dermatitis, is a chronic condition that may affect the scalp. The symptoms of this condition include yellowish colored scales forming on the scalp in oily areas. The condition--also called cradle cap when infants have the condition--tends to run in families, according to Medline Plus. Stress, weather changes and fatigue may increase the chance of developing seborrheic dermatitis. Treatment for this condition includes managing stress and using medicated shampoos designed to treat dandruff. For treating infants, gentle brushing of the scales on the head and medicated shampoo helps treat the condition.
Head Lice
Lice are wingless parasites that suck blood from the host. They spread easily between people and can be difficult to eradicate. Three types of lice live on the human body in different areas. One form of lice lives on the scalp hair. The lice cause extreme itching and are common in school age children. Treatment for head lice includes using a fine-tooth comb and a special shampoo to remove the lice and the nits, according to the Merck Manual of Medical Information.
Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin. One form of ringworm occurs on the scalp and is also referred to as tinea capitis. This common condition is contagious, especially between children. The symptoms associated with scalp ringworm include a patch of scaly pink skin on the scalp that may itch and possible hair loss in the area. A reddened rash may also occur, but it is not as common. Treatment for the condition includes applying an antifungal medication to the scalp and taking an oral antifungal medication. The antifungal treatment lasts for six to eight weeks, according to the Merck Manual of Medical Information.
