A skin condition identified by scaly, raised, and red patches on the scalp is known as scalp psoriasis. There can be a single patch affecting the area, or several patches can affect the entire skin on the scalp. These can also spread and reach the forehead, the back of the neck, and the ears. In such cases, the condition can cause emotional, physical, and psychological distress, making it crucial to get immediate treatment.
What is scalp psoriasis?
As per the National Psoriasis Foundation, psoriasis affects almost 2 to 3 percent of the population across the globe. When a person suffers from scalp psoriasis, there is a cell buildup on the skin. This buildup can lead to scaly, thick, and itchy patches on the scalp, and it can also affect other areas of the body. The condition can be mild, and in some cases, it might not even be noticeable. However, it can also be chronic, meaning it lasts for a long time and affects one’s day-to-day life. For example, scalp psoriasis can cause itching that can affect your sleep and any routine activities. Excessive scratching can also lead to loss of hair and skin infections.
What are the causes of scalp psoriasis?
The exact cause of scalp or any other type of psoriasis is yet to be known. But it is assumed that the condition occurs when the immune system is not functioning properly. Two 2016 studies show scalp psoriasis is found in 45 to 56 percent of people living in the country. It has been found that a person who has psoriasis can produce neutrophils and T cells – types of white blood cells – in higher quantities. T cells are responsible for traveling in the body and removing bacteria and viruses. But when T cells are found to be in abundance, they might start attacking healthy cells in the body and producing more skin and white blood cells. When a person suffers from scalp psoriasis, producing these skin cells in excess can lead to redness, flaking, and inflammation.
What are the symptoms of scalp psoriasis?
The symptoms of scalp psoriasis can vary from mild to severe. The condition causes several symptoms, and these include:
- Flaky scalp that looks like dandruff
- Dryness of the scalp
- Itchy and burning sensation
- Red patches on the scalp that are raised
- Scales that are silvery in appearance
- Bleeding or loss of hair is another symptom. However, this can be temporary and caused due to excessive scratching or removal of plaques from the scalp.
The symptoms are usually found affecting both sides of the scalp. These can affect most parts of the head and, in some cases, can spread further to other parts that are close to the scalp.
Who gets scalp psoriasis?
The lifestyle and genetics of a person can have a role in the development of this condition. Aside from that, there are several other risk factors that also increase the chances of a person getting scalp psoriasis, including the following.
- Genetics or family history of a person
If you have a parent who has psoriasis, which increases your chances of developing the condition. The chances increase further if both the parents suffer from the condition.
- Bodyweight
People who suffer from obesity are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
- Unmanaged stress levels
People suffering from high or unmanaged stress levels are at higher risk of developing psoriasis. Stress directly affects the immune system, and thus, it increases the chances of several health problems, including psoriasis.
- Smoking
The chances of getting psoriasis are higher in people who smoke. Not just that, smoking can also worsen the symptoms of psoriasis.
- Bacterial and viral infections
A weak immune system and infections that keep recurring can increase the chances of psoriasis. Therefore, children and people who have HIV are at higher risk of developing the disease.
