Please Help!!

[KayeJ25]

I have this one spot on my scalp that itches like crazy. I have always had dry scalp, but lately it's gotten much worse. It's red and sore and nothing I have tried has worked. I've tried tea tree hair and scalp treatment, and a special shampoo. Is there anything that will help with the itching until I can get into a doctor?

[KayeJ25]

Thank you both for your advice. I went to the dermatologist yesterday. She gave me Luxiq foam to use on my scalp. I go back in a month. So hopefully this helps! :)

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This can be due to tinea capitis. The other possibilities are allergic reaction, eczema or psoriasis patch. Diagnosis is by clinical examination of the scalp as well as a skin lesion biopsy with microscopic examination.Anti-fungal medications, taken by mouth, are used to treat the infection.

It is important to keep the area clean. A medicated shampoo, such as one containing selenium sulfide like selsen may also help.
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 doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[DrEmilyAltman]

Several different problems can present as an itchy and red sore on the scalp.  The most common reasons for dry, red, irritated scalp are seborrhea and psoriasis.  If scratched, any condition on the scalp can get infected and become more itchy or painful.

Also, fungal infections or ringworm of the scalp can also present as an itchy, red scalp.  

In addition, applying a variety of treatments may cause an allergic contact dermatitis.

Is there any way you can get to a dermatologist quickly?  All the potential conditions are treated differently. Applying anything else to the affected area may just aggravate the condition even more if it is the wrong treatment.

Disclaimer: Dr. Emily Altman and Advanced Skin Wisdom provides the content on this website solely for informational and educational purposes. Information provided on this website should not be considered medical advice and is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional. Communications to or from Dr. Altman and Advanced Skin Wisdom and any person will not be considered to establish a patient/doctor relationship.