Scalp Problem

[Shank8]

This is the 3rd summer in a row that I have been having problems with my scalp. I have been kind of keeping track and every year, for the last 3 years, I have gotten an itchy scalp that feels a lot like a normal dry scalp in the month of July and lasts until about March the next year.  It is set off by me itching it or the scalp getting irritated by any kind of touch (ie hood, hat, someone else touches it)  There is no redness or allergen like bumps of any kind.  Once it starts itching it will get worst and worst as I itch it so I have to just ignore it until it goes away which can be very uncomfortable sometimes.  I do have some dandruff and there are "scaly" dry parts on my head that I can feel and scrape off which leaves dead skin cells on my finger tips, therefore I know my scalp is dry.  However, head and shoulders and other anti dandruff shampoos have done nothing at all to stop the itch. The only thing that worked was last year when I got a prescription Allegra D. The antihistimine must have stopped the itching for the time being but it did not solve the problem.  Any help would be appreciated, thanks!

[Shank8]

I visited a dermatologist and they prescribed me to take tar, selenium, and zinc shampoos along with olax foam.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

It can be due to dandruff of the scalp. Eat a healthy diet. You can also take vit B6 and vit A and E which are good for hair and skin. Try medicated shampoos for dandruff. There are a number of over-the-counter shampoos available that can help. The most effective ingredients -- antimicrobials -- to look for are zinc pyridinethione, selenium sulfide, sulfur and ketoconazole (also available by prescription). If your hair is colored, don't use products with selenium sulfide or sulfur.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.