What is scalp psoriasis?
Scalp Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin condition which causes raised reddish scaly patches. It can appear as one patch or several, depending on the severity of each individual case. Not only is scalp psoriasis visible on the scalp, it can also extend to the forehead, back of the neck, or behind the ears. Its appearance can raise concerns that the sufferer may be contagious; however, psoriasis cannot be passed from one person to another.
What causes psoriasis of the scalp to flare up?
Although there are some known triggers when it comes to psoriasis flare-ups, these can differ from patient to patient. Some of the commonly known triggers can be stress, certain heart and blood pressure medications, and infection. Some other triggers seem to come from allergies, weather, and diet: although they are not medically proven, they’re still believed to be the cause for some patients’ flares.
Here are some common symptoms of scalp psoriasis, although these can vary on a case by case basis:
- Red patches on the scalp: Some red patches are barely noticeable; while others can be very noticeable, thick, and inflamed.
- Flaking: You may notice flaking, which is similar in appearance to dandruff. The difference is scalp psoriasis creates a silver tone to the flaking and you may see a dry scale on the scalp.
- Dry Scalp: Scalp psoriasis can cause such dryness that the scalp may crack and bleed.
- Itching: Itching is one of the most common symptoms of scalp psoriasis. Some may suffer from mild itching, while others may have a more intense itch that can interfere with daily life and may make sleep more difficult.
- Bleeding: Because of the itching, people tend to scratch their scalp as a natural response. Although it is very difficult, you should try to refrain from scratching as it can cause bleeding, and may even thicken the scales and cause psoriasis to worsen.
- Soreness and/or burning: Psoriasis can cause a feeling of soreness or even a burning sensation in the scalp.
- Hair Loss: Although scalp psoriasis doesn’t directly cause hair loss, too much scratching can remove the scale and create temporary hair loss. Once psoriasis clears up, the hair will usually grow back.
- Lowered Self-Esteem: Flaking, scratching, and hair loss can be embarrassing and also create a feeling of lowered self-esteem or self-confidence in sufferers. Some even suffer from depression.
In addition to these more common symptoms, an article by Medical Republic shows an association to metabolic syndrome with an increase in the risk of heart disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. This is because the inflammation is not only in the skin but also in the blood vessels.
Scalp psoriasis treatment:
Although there is no cure for scalp psoriasis, it is treatable. For some, it can take time to find a treatment that works. Over-the-counter or prescription treatments may include ingredients your skin is sensitive to. Many patients prefer to use creams and shampoos that include only natural products. At Hope’s Relief, we are devoted to making a difference in people’s lives by using natural skin care ingredients that provide nourishing benefits without any harmful chemicals and are safe and effective for all ages.