Plus, what helps?
Alopecia(hair loss) is resulting from a disruption in the body’s hair production cycle.
It can have several causes, some of which also cause an itchy scalp.
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Skin conditions, infections, parasites like lice, and other factors can cause scalp pruritus (itchiness).
Some conditions can cause an itchy scalp and hair loss, such astinea capitis(scalp ringworm).
Too much scratching of an itchy scalp can also cause damage leading to hair loss.
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What Causes Hair Loss and Itchy Scalp?
Hair loss and itchy scalp both have a variety of causes, some of which can overlap.
Comorbidity (co-occurrence of another conditon) can also be a factor.
For example, people who have androgenetic alopecia often also have seborrheic dermatitis.
Unmodifiable Risk Factors For Hair Loss
Hair loss can’t always be prevented.
Medicated shampoomay be recommended for conditions such as dandruff or psoriasis.
Moisturizing creams or ointments may be used to help with dryness or itchiness.
Your healthcare provider may recommend medicated ointments, such ascorticosteroidlotions, for conditions such asseborrheic dermatitis.
Your healthcare provider may suggest taking specificsupplementsif a nutritional deficiency causes your symptoms.
Hormonal therapy may be suggested if there is a hormonal cause for the symptoms.
There is some overlap between itchy scalp and hair loss.
Both symptoms can occur with the same condition, such as scalp ringworm.
Scratching an itchy scalp can cause damage that leads to hair loss.
Hair loss in conditions such as alopecia areata may cause scalp itch to occur before the hair falls out.
It’s important to see a healthcare provider to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
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