Common Scalp Problems
Symptoms such as itching, irritation, and flaking, are present in many different types of scalp diseases. To know what exact condition is causing your symptoms, you should seek the advice of a skilled healthcare professional like a dermatologist.
The following are common scalp conditions:
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Dandruff
Dandruff is a very common scalp problem which is a buildup of shedding skin. The cause is still unknown but it may be due to a fungal infection.
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Androgenetic Alopecia
This is a common type of hair loss that affects both men and women presenting as shedding of hair in male pattern baldness or thinning of hair in female pattern baldness.
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Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that is usually hereditary. It is a life-long illness that is inflammatory in nature and has periods of relapse and remission.
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Folliculitis
This is the inflammation of the hair follicles that is caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites.
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Alopecia Areata
As an autoimmune disease, alopecia areata occurs when the immune system attacks the hair follicles causing them to shrink and slow down hair growth.
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Ringworm (Tinea Capitis)
This is a fungal infection that is contagious and can be spread by direct contact with a person who’s infected or by sharing personal items.
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Eczema
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes dry and itchy skin. It tends to be hereditary and those with other allergic conditions have higher chances of getting it too.
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Seborrheic Dermatitis
This is also a long-term inflammatory disorder found in areas that have plenty of oil glands such as the scalp.
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Head Lice
Lice are small insects that live on the scalp and can cause intense itching and red bumps. Their eggs called nits can be easily detected in the hair.
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Lichen Planus
This rare condition causes itchy, small patches of hair loss on the scalp called scarring alopecia.