Small red bumps on your head might be caused by a number of things, including bug bites or mild skin conditions. If the bumps itch, you might scratch at them and inadvertently cause irritation and infection that can lead to hair loss. Since determining the cause of the bumps on your head requires a trained eye, schedule an appointment with your doctor for an evaluation.
Causes
Although skin conditions like acne keloidalis nuchae and folliculitis can cause non-itchy red bumps on your head near hair follicles, the American Academy of Dermatology indicates that the most probable cause of small, itchy red bumps on the scalp are bites from common pests like bedbugs, lice and scabies. Acne keloidalis nuchae -- a condition that sometimes afflicts dark-skinned individuals with stiff or curly hair -- occurs when hairs on the nape of the neck and back of the head grow into the skin and cause red, inflamed bumps. Folliculitis is a common skin condition that occurs when bacteria or virus invade hair follicles.
Identification
Your doctor can usually see head lice and their eggs on your head when he conducts a physical examination. Since scabies -- a microscopic mite -- and bedbugs might not be visible to the naked eye, your doctor will rely on background information, including when they appeared and whether you have red bumps on other parts of your body, to help him diagnose these infections. He might also scrape the lesions and examine them under a microscope to look for scabies and their eggs.
Considerations
Prompt treatment of scabies and lice infections can prevent them from spreading to others. If standard treatments that use permethrin and synthetic pyrethroids do not kill the lice, you might need stronger prescription treatments. Medline Plus cautions that lice treatments can cause significant side effects in children younger than 6 months, the elderly and people weighing less than 110 pounds. Discuss lice treatment plans with your doctor for detailed instructions on eliminating the lice and preventing further infestations.
Misconceptions
Since many people associate bedbugs with infestations in hotel rooms, you might discount them as a cause if the bumps occurred at your house. Bedbugs can hop a ride in your luggage or clothing and infest your home. They can also go as long as six to 12 months between feedings. Other than itchy red bites on your head another other parts of your body, you might not see many signs of bedbugs. They usually hide along the seams of mattresses, behind headboards and in other dark places.
Warning
Scratching or picking at the bumps on your head can cause a skin infection. Dermatologist Albert C. Yan on the American Academy of Dermatology website suggests using topical corticosteroids and warm compresses applied directly to the bumps to control the itching and irritation. Call your doctor immediately if the area around the bumps becomes inflamed or oozes liquid.
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