Do You Have Psoriasis Symptoms on Your Scalp?
Most people know psoriasis to be a skin condition but forget that it can include the scalp. No, the condition isn’t just dandruff or a dry scalp, but actual symptoms of scalp psoriasis. Let’s explore symptoms of psoriasis of the scalp and how to identify it.
What is Scalp Psoriasis?
Scalp psoriasis is a skin condition that causes the scalp to develop dry, itchy and scaly patches on the scalp. This condition is known to spread down to the forehead and neck. As with skin psoriasis, medical professionals are unsure as to what causes scalp psoriasis. It is speculated to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body begins to cause the skin cells to mature and die rapidly, creating a build-up of dead cells. This build-up is the flaking and patchy skin that we see– though, since scalp psoriasis is under the scalp, we rarely actually see it unless it spreads to the forehead or neck. Some doctors believe that psoriasis, including scalp psoriasis, could also be hereditary as for some people it seemingly runs in the family.
Symptoms of Scalp Psoriasis
Patches Of Scaly, Bumpy Skin
This is the most common symptom of psoriasis and is often how one can tell that they have it. In mild cases, these patches are slight and aren’t usually bumpy. In moderate to severe scalp psoriasis, these patches can cover most of the scalp. The scaliness tends to be severe and the bumps are red and itchy.
Fish-like Scales
The scaliness of the skin often appears as a silvery scale. When the skin dries up and the itchiness ensues, those scales are a result.
If the person suffering from the condition scratches, the scales will loosen from the scalp and rest in the hair or fall on the shoulders, similar to dandruff. Do not be mistaken, however. Dandruff is a build-up of dry skin due to a lack of moisture. Scalp psoriasis is a build-up of dead cells due to an unknown medical condition.
Itchy And Dry Scalp
Severe itchiness and dryness are what make scalp psoriasis difficult to live with. These two symptoms cause other symptoms, like flaking and scaliness, to evolve. Even though it would prove to be extremely difficult, scratching the infected scalp is the worst thing a person can do. It can lead to bleeding infection and even more dryness which will cause more itchiness.
Hair Loss
While hair loss is not a direct symptom of the scalp psoriasis condition, sufferers still may experience it. This is due to the constant scratching that is being done. Any continuous manipulation of hair can cause the hair to fall out. So just imagine what non-stop scratching will do. Nonetheless, if hair loss does occur, it will usually grow back as the psoriasis is improved with treatment.
If you believe that you have any of these symptoms and you are in Cincinnati, Ohio or a surrounding city, our experts at The Dermatology Group may be able to help. We are always ready with advice, resources and even treatment. Give us a call today.