Who among us has not experienced an itchy scalp? Certainly no one, but severe itching of the head can be a signal that warns that there is a problem that needs to be solved, be it dry hair, dandruff, or a skin disease. In this article, we will learn about the various causes of itchy scalp and how to treat it, so read the lines below.

Symptoms related to itchy head

An itchy scalp can be a sign or symptom of a skin problem, and an itchy head can temporarily cause more relief, tingling, and pain. The most common symptoms associated with scalp problems are:

• A burning sensation in the middle of the head.
• The presence of bald spots on the scalp.
• dry skin.
• Dermatitis, redness.
• Swelling of the scalp.
• pus-filled wounds
• Scales, spots on the scalp.
• A slight increase in body temperature.
• wounds on the scalp;

What causes itchy scalp?

There are many causes of itchy scalp in children and adults, and itchy scalp varies for different causes, including the following:

1. Dandruff

Dandruff is one of the most common causes of itchy scalp and is caused by dry hair. When itching, it is easy to see dandruff falling out of your hair, which may be visible on the scalp or on (especially dark) clothes.

2. Reactions of the scalp with some preparations

Some people complain of itchy scalp after henna, dyeing, shampoo, conditioner, or any other hair care product after use. The itching may be accompanied by a rash called contact dermatitis, which is caused by an allergic skin reaction to this type.

3. Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is one of the most common causes of itchy scalp, a condition that affects areas of the body rich in sebaceous glands, such as the scalp or face, and can be one of the causes of itchy scalp after applying the oil.

4. Hives

These are red, raised, itchy patches that appear anywhere on the skin, including the scalp. They can appear or disappear within hours and sometimes fade away and then reappear. If you have had this problem for more than 6 weeks, you may be chronic.

5. Head lice

Head lice are one of the causes of itchy scalp, especially in children, and are a parasitic insect that lives in the scalp, is transmitted from person to person, feeds on blood in the scalp, and lice can lay eggs on the hair of the thread.

6. Scabies

One of the causes of severe itching of the head can be scabies, and it is caused by a small insect called the human itch mite, and if the insect penetrates the skin, it causes very severe and unpleasant itching, to the extent that it can interfere with night-time sleep.

7. Mycoses

This is a fungal infection that can cause a rash and itching if the head is involved.

8. Psoriasis

Itchy scalp psoriasis can be mild to severe in severity and you may have red patches, silvery scales that look like dandruff, and a dry scalp.

9. Eczema

Eczema can affect the scalp, causing redness, burning, and intense itching.

10. Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes, stress, and dehydration caused by these changes can be some of the causes of itchy scalp, especially in pregnant women.

11. Stress, anxiety

Stress and anxiety are also causes of itchy scalp as they can affect your overall health, including your skin and scalp.

12. Inflammation of the hair follicles

Folliculitis is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection that can cause itchy scalp with temporary hair loss.

When should you visit a doctor?

If you have a persistent, bothersome itchy head that doesn’t go away within a few days of its onset, or is accompanied by hair loss, pain, blisters, and natural treatment for itchy scalp didn’t help, it’s best to see your doctor as itchy scalp caused by infection. Whether it’s a fungal infection, parasites, or itching from another cause, it doesn’t go away until it gets treated.

Treatment of an itchy head

Treatment of itchy scalp mainly depends on knowing the cause, for example, dandruff can be eliminated with the frequent treatment of itchy scalp shampoo against dandruff, the following are the most prominent treatments for dandruff and itching:

Getting rid of an itchy head with medications

Each drug has a specific effect on the scalp, for example there are drugs that kill parasites and bacteria, and there are other drugs that reduce the amount of oils in your hair, here are some examples:

• Antifungal shampoo or cream for itchy scalp.
• Drugs for lice and scabies.
• topical corticosteroids.
• Exfoliating, for example, salicylic acid.

In addition to the above, you should consider whether stress and anxiety are causing your itchy scalp and try to heal it through meditation, lifestyle changes, or a visit to a specialist.

Home remedies to get rid of an itchy scalp

There are many home remedies for getting rid of an itchy scalp, including:

• Use an anti-dandruff shampoo.
• Treat your itchy head with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
• Moisturizing hair.
• Treat an itchy scalp with herbs and natural oils such as olive oil, coconut oil, and peppermint oil.
• Stop using products that make your scalp hypersensitive.

How can I prevent itchy scalp?

Experts always advise you to reduce the risk of developing itchy scalp by:

• Regularly wash your hair.
• Do not share personal items such as towels, clothes and hats.
• Avoid using dyes and henna (if they cause allergies).
• Use a mild shampoo that does not irritate the scalp.
• The scalp can be massaged to improve blood flow to the hair follicles.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions for treating existing skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema to avoid itching.
• Keep your hair clean and dry.
• Eat healthy foods rich in vitamins that are beneficial to your hair.