Scalp Psoriasis is a skin disorder that causes reddish, raised, and scaly patches. It can be a single patch or can affect the entire scalp. It can spread to the neck, forehead, back of the neck, and inside the ears. It is not a contagious disorder. It is caused due to a weak immune system accelerating skin cells growth. Scalp psoriasis can be mild or severe. Read on to know more.
What is scalp psoriasis?
It is a skin disease that occurs when the immune system sends faulty signals causing skin cells to grow very quickly. This growth can occur in patches and are so flaky that if you try to remove them from your scalp, it might cause bleeding. So, you have to be very gentle when you comb, shampoo or tie your hair. Even wearing a hat can be difficult and painful.
Symptoms of scalp psoriasis
Some of the common signs of this condition are as follows.
- Fine scaling or silvery-white scales
- Dry scalp
- Intense and unstoppable itching
- Burning or soreness
- Hair loss and possible infection. If you see any swollen lymph nodes, then it is a sign of an infection.
- Dandruff-like flaking; however, it is different from dandruff as it is not waxy or greasy.
Causes of scalp psoriasis
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown individuals with this condition can also get scalp psoriasis. Genetics and lifestyle are common risk factors of this skin disorder. Other risk factors include smoking, stress, cold, dry weather conditions, and vitamin D deficiency.
Treatments of scalp psoriasis
A few treatment options for this condition include the following.
Specially formulated creams, gels, shampoos, oils, foams, ointment, soaps, and medicated shampoos. Doctors prescribe high-potency steroids in the form of gels, lotions, creams, and foams. You can even go for a prescription spray. Over-the-counter products such as coal tar, salicylic acid, and other FDA-approved medications like anthralin, calcipotriene, topical steroids, tazarotene, and Calcipotriene.
- If you have mild symptoms, then your doctor might suggest injecting steroids directly into the affected areas.
- In case your symptoms don’t respond to topical treatments, then you might be prescribed phototherapy with a laser or non-laser light source.
- You can even apply cool water or cold packs for some relief.
- Phototherapy with ultraviolet rays could be used to slow down the growth of skin cells.
- If the condition spreads beyond the scalp, oral treatments and biological treatments are recommended.
- Note that not all treatments work for everyone. You may have to follow one treatment for a few weeks and if it doesn’t work, try another treatment option. Also, you can use a medicated shampoo for a few weeks and then switch to another if it doesn’t have the necessary effect. You can use regular shampoo and creams once your condition has been cured.
Living with psoriasis
There is no permanent cure for scalp psoriasis. However, there are many treatments options that can help manage its symptoms, control flare-ups, and prevent this disease from recurring. You can join psoriasis support groups to help cope with the psychological impact of the condition. These groups help manage stress and negative emotions and feelings.
Conclusion
If you have a rash on your scalp, then you should immediately seek medical help. Early treatment increases the chances of a faster cure. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations after seeing your symptoms. Scalp psoriasis is a common skin problem that can be controlled with the right treatment at the right time. It might flare up periodically, but if the treatment plan is followed, you can control and manage it effectively.
