An itchy scalp can be a problem any time of the year, but once cold weather sets in and heating systems are cranking out dry heat, the discomfort may become exacerbated. Some of the conditions that can cause the scalp to become itchy closely resemble one another in signs and symptoms. For this reason, consult your health care provider for specific diagnosis and treatment as needed.
Pruritis is the medical term for itching. DermNet NZ defines pruritis as "an unpleasant sensation on the skin that provokes the desire to rub or scratch the area to obtain relief." Unabated, pruritis may lead to sleeplessness and anxiety. Repeated rubbing or scratching of the skin may cause irritation or open areas, violating the integrity of the skin as a protective barrier.
Features
Scalp pruritis may or may not be accompanied by one or more of the following signs and symptoms: redness; open areas; flat or raised rash; dry, flaking skin; greasy yellow or white skin flakes; and soreness.
Types
A number of dermatological conditions may result in scalp pruritis. According to Mayoclinic.com, such conditions as dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema or a sensitivity to hair care products may be the cause of itchy scalp. Head lice is another possible cause of scalp pruritus.
Considerations
In addition to dermatological conditions, itching of the scalp can be a side effect of some medications or conditions elsewhere in the body. Consult your health care provider if treatment with over-the-counter shampoos does not resolve the itching.
Risk Factors
Mayoclinic.com explains there are both controllable and uncontrollable risk factors associated with scalp pruritis. Controllable factors include: oily scalp is more prone to the development of seborrheic dermatitis; a diet poor in zinc, some fats and B vitamins. Management of these factors include frequent shampooing to minimize oil on scalp and following a nutritious, balanced diet.
Uncontrollable risk factors include: most scalp conditions occur in young adults to those of middle age; men are more likely to develop scalp pruritis; scalp pruritis affects those with neurological or immune system disorders and post-heart attack or stroke victims.
Solution
The solution for itchy scalp depends on the underlying cause. Mayoclinic.com recommends initially trying shampooing daily with a mild shampoo. If this is unsuccessful in relieving the scalp pruritis, try using an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo. DermNet NZ and Mayoclinic.com explain that there are several different types of dandruff shampoos; if one type, such as a zinc pyrithione shampoo, does not relieve the itching, try another type, such as a coal tar selenium sulfide shampoo.
Leave the dandruff shampoo lather on your head for at least five minutes to allow the medication time to work.
Warning
Consult your health care provider if use of the over-the-counter shampoos do not relieve symptoms within several weeks or if symptoms worsen, advises Mayoclinic.com.
