How Do You Know If You Have Scalp Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a common skin condition that can affect any part of the body. The most common form, plaque psoriasis, appears as raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells. Scalp psoriasis affects about 50 percent of people who have plaque psoriasis.
Scalp psoriasis can range from a few spots of dandruff-like scaling to major eruptions that cover large areas and are difficult to treat. In severe cases, the scalp psoriasis can spread down the back of the neck or even onto the forehead or face. If you have scalp psoriasis, you may also notice flakes of dead skin in your hair or on your shoulders, especially after you comb or brush your hair.
There are several over-the-counter treatments that can help with scalp psoriasis, including medicated shampoos, creams, and ointments. If these don't work, your doctor may prescribe topical or systemic medications.
- Flaky skin on your scalp
- White or silver patches on your scalp
- Red, inflamed skin on your scalp
- Itching or burning sensations on your scalp
- Soreness on your scalp
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor or dermatologist. They will be able to confirm whether or not you have scalp psoriasis and recommend a treatment plan.
- scaling
- redness
- itching
- hair loss
If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor for a diagnosis.
So, how do you know if you have scalp psoriasis? Continue reading to learn about the telltale signs.
The symptoms of scalp psoriasis
One of the most common symptoms of scalp psoriasis is an intense itchiness. This can be so severe that it interferes with your daily life and leads to sleepless nights. The itchiness is often accompanied by red patches on the scalp that may be covered with flaky skin.
These patches can be small or large, and they may be clustered together or spread out across the scalp. In some cases, the red patches can extend beyond the hairline and onto the forehead, neck, and ears.
Scalp psoriasis can also cause hair loss. This may happen because of the intense itching, which can lead to hair being pulled out. It can also happen when the red patches become crusted over and start to bleed. The crusting can also cause hair follicles to become inflamed, which leads to hair loss.
What causes scalp psoriasis?
The exact cause of scalp psoriasis is unknown, but it is believed to be connected to an overactive immune system. In people with psoriasis, the body produces new skin cells at an accelerated rate. These new cells build up on the surface of the skin, causing patchy, scaly areas.
Scalp psoriasis may also be triggered by certain events, such as infections, injury to the skin, or stress. Once Scalp psoriasis has developed, it often comes and goes in cycles of flare-ups and remission.
How is scalp psoriasis treated?
There is no cure for Scalp psoriasis, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms and keep the condition under control. Topical treatments, such as creams and ointments, are often prescribed to help reduce inflammation and itchiness. Steroid injections may also be used in severe cases.
light therapy, which involves exposure to ultraviolet light, can also be effective in treating Scalp psoriasis. oral medications may be prescribed in more severe cases.
If you think you may have Scalp psoriasis, see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan. With proper treatment, you can enjoy relief from symptoms and keep Scalp psoriasis under control.