Itchy Scalp? Here’s how to fix it...

Itchy Scalp or Scalp Pruritis can be a stressful condition wherein the natural moisture of the scalp is lost thereby making it highly susceptible to inflammation. These inflammations then in turn cause your scalp to become even more irritated. It causes frequent scratching and discomfort. The scalp appears red, flaky or has white or yellowish scales.

Why does my scalp itch?

The most common cause of an itchy scalp is Seborrhoeic Dermatitis, commonly known as Dandruff. It causes itchy patches of scaly skin that may look little greasy but can flake especially on scratching. Though the main cause for Dandruff is still not known, doctors believe it is the growth of Malassezia yeast species. Stress, hormonal changes, cold dry weather and certain medications can also cause seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Another common condition is Psoriasis where the scalp presents with patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. They can be quite painful to touch. This condition is known as scalp psoriasis. 

An itchy scalp could also be the result of some other underlying medical conditions such as Diabetes Mellitus, anxiety disorder, Contact Dermatitis, Head lice, Ring worm or Tinea Capitis. Scarring Alopecia can also cause an itchy scalp where all the hair follicles are destroyed and replaced with scar tissue.

Management       

Management of scalp pruritis can be challenging as the main course of treatment depends on the removal of the aggravating factor.

One should avoid using any chemical irritants, hair dyes and fragrances. Hot blow drying should be avoided. Shampoos with hypoallergenic products can be used.

Ultraviolet Phototherapy is widely used in patients with pruritis. Topical corticosteroids should be used only when there is an active flare up of scalp psoriasis or seborrhoeic dermatitis. Psychotherapies can also help to a major extent. Some people often scratch and itch the scalp unconsciously. Psychotherapy will help in stress reduction and develop a sense of control over the itching.

Homeopathy to the rescue

Homeopathy is a wonderful science based on the principle of individualisation. The remedy depends on a thorough case taking followed by selection of the most appropriate drug picture. The holistic nature of homeopathy treats each person as a unique individual. Homeopathic medicines are safe to use as they do not usually cause any side-effects.

Some of the well known remedies that give excellent results in case of an itchy scalp are:

1. Kali Sulphuricum: This is one of the leading remedies for seborrhoeic dermatitis with yellowish scales. The scalp is moist and the scales are sticky. There is intense itching and tingling. Aggravated by heat.

2. Arsenicum Album: Used in seborrhoeic dermatitis where the scalp is covered white scales that itch intolerably. Also restlessness and anxiety are marked. The skin is dry and scaly. Better by hot application.

3. Graphites: Indicated in seborrhoeic dermatitis where the scalp has a distinct foul odour. Matting of the hair or hair loss is seen. The scaling decreases right after washing but returns again.

4. Staphysagria: Indicated in individuals where the scalp psoriasis has developed after grief or suppressed emotions.

5. Rhus Toxicodendron: Skin eruptions are swollen and often itch intensely. Hot applications soothe the itching.

6. Phosphorus: It is an excellent homoeopathic medicine for seborrhoeic dermatitis with flakiness and hair fall. The hair fall occurs in bunches often resulting in bald spot. This can be accompanied by extreme burning sensation on the scalp.

7. Thuja Occidentalis: A well known homoeopathic prescription for seborrhoeic dermatitis with white drops on the scalp. The hair might be dry.

8. Sanicula: Used in seborrhoeic dermatitis when scaly dandruff occurs over the scalp, eyebrows and other hairy parts.

9. Mezerium: Itching is marked in this remedy. Scaly plaques may itch intensely, thickening or crusting over if the person scratches too much. Better by cold application.

10. Calcarea Sulph: Used in seborrhoeic dermatitis when associated with eczema, pimples and hair fall.

11. Sulphur: Intense itching, burning are the keynotes from this remedy. Affected areas are bright red and irritated, with scaling skin that gets inflamed on scratching. Usually indicated when people over use steroidal applications.

Please remember that self medication is not recommended in homeopathy. You have to consult an expert homeopath for best treatment.