Scalp Problem

[firecracker]

My scalp is red and flaky.  I have been to the Dermatologist and the doctor can't seem to get it cleared up.  Seems as though any medicine that I have used calms it down but does not seem to clear it up.  It came on very sudden, and covers most all of my scalp.  I also have terrible itching on my arm.  Any answers?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Itchy scalp can be suppressed but not cured.  Various shampoos can help, as well as scalp applications.  I can't think of any connection with arm itch, unless what you have is not really dandruff but rather stess-induced itching, which often affects the scalp.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[sib396]

I also had a skin problem similar to yours.  For years I saw dermatoligists and first they said it was ecxema and gave me all kinds of skin medications.  Well finally a doctor diagnosed me with psoriasis of the scalp.  Basically it flares up when I am upset or even really happy.  I know of people who have shaved thier heads and gotten some sun on it and that clears it up.  I tried the tanning bed thing and it does work to some extreme.  The problem is I have very long and thick curly hair and I really don't want to cut it.  I have just basically tried to cool my moods and live with it.

[rubbertoes]

i think i have stress-induced itching, what can i do about it.  i also have a bunch of itchy bumps on the back of my head, what can i do about that also