Bumps on your scalp may cause itching, skin irritation and redness. It may seem nearly impossible to brush or comb your hair as the bristles glide over and scratch the bumps. A variety of conditions, from psoriasis to chickenpox, can cause bumps to develop on your scalp. To ensure proper treatment, seek a professional medical diagnosis.
Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is a common condition that can affect all parts of the body. It tends to cause bumps or lesions of reddened, itchy, scaly skin, which are referred to as plaques. Plaque psoriasis can develop on the scalp, elbows, knees or the trunk. There is no specific cause of plaque psoriasis, but it may form because of an allergic reaction to a new soap, shampoo or other hair styling product when formed on the scalp. The bumps can form in clusters or separately and can vary in size. You can also inherit the tendency to get psoriasis.
Lupus
Lupus can cause bumps to appear on various parts of your body, including your face, scalp, neck and ears. When lupus forms only on your head, neck, scalp and ears, it is often referred to as discoid lupus, or DLE, which is localized. The coin-shaped lesions that form are red, thick and scaly in appearance. DLE lesions generally do not itch and can result in permanent hair loss because the lesions become thick, permanently scarring the hair follicle and inhibiting future hair growth. Sun exposure may make DLE lesions worse. Long-lasting DLE lesions can cause scarring and skin discoloration. Skin cancer may also develop in long-term DLE lesions. You should address any changes in DLE lesions with your health care provider.
Head Lice
Head lice are tiny insects that lay eggs, also known as nits. The lice can live up to 30 days on your scalp or eyebrows, while the eggs can only live approximately two weeks. You can contract head lice from sharing clothing or bedding or from simply standing close to someone who has head lice. Symptoms of head lice include intense itching of the scalp and small, red bumps along your scalp, neck and shoulders. You may also notice small white specks throughout your hair that seem impossible to remove. These small specks are nits. Special over-the-counter shampoos can help kill the lice and nits.
