Itchy scalp is a common condition, especially in adults, according to SkinSight, a site located in Rochester, New York, whose information is provided by licensed dermatologists. Dandruff and psoriasis are two of the most usual causes, affecting different areas of the scalp. While dandruff tends to affect the entire scalp, psoriasis, affects the back. Head lice and ringworm are the most common causes of itching among children. Both are easily treated.
Dandruff
Dandruff is a non-contagious condition appearing in oil rich areas of the skin including the scalp, face and trunk of the body. An overproduction of skin cells causes flaking, and in some cases, redness and itching depending on the severity of the condition. SkinSight explains that the condition can worsen because of stress, infrequent shampooing and during the winter months. No cure currently exists, however, medicated shampoos exist to help relieve the symptoms.
Psoriasis
A lifelong sin condition, psoriasis affects approximately 4 percent of the American population, according to FamilyResource.com. A thick, silvery scaling of the skin accompanies this condition, along with a red rash on the scalp, and a genetic link may be the cause. Psoriasis usually affects other areas of the body such as the elbows, knees, lower back and genitals. Treatment options include steroid drugs, ultraviolet light and topical creams.
Head Louse
A common problem among school age children, head louse spreads through head-to-head contact or the sharing of hair accessories such as hair ties, combs and brushes. The louse prefer to live behind the ears and the back of the scalp where it is warm; these are the areas where itching is commonly seen. The best treatment is a medicated shampoo. This is available by prescription or over-the-counter. To prevent recurrence, all bedding and clothing should be washed and dried on the highest settings, and all hair accessories either thrown away or cleansed in hot water for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Ringworm
Known as tinea capitis, ringworm is a common fungal infection of the scalp commonly seen in children, according to SkinSight. It causes scaly spots and patches of broken patches of hair. No worms actually cause the infection--the name comes from the round patch beginning in the middle of the scalp as the infection begins to improve. A contagious infection, it can be caught from an infected person, animal or object. A prescription medication is the only way to treat this condition.
Stress
Worrying about money, work, family problems or health issues can result in an itchy scalp, according to FamilyResource.com. Treatment includes lifestyle changes rather than medications or topical creams.
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