burning scalp

I'm a 29 year old girl and have had type I diabetes for 28 years. My blood sugars are under control. I noticed about 2 weeks ago that my scalp has a burning sensation that will randomly start and then stop. Tonight it has been this way for about an hour but other times it goes away within a few minutes. I have no red spots, flakey skin or itching. It just burns.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This burning sensation of the scalp can be due to peripheral neuropathy which is very common in diabetes. I suggest you to get an evaluation done from your endocrinologist regarding the blood sugar levels and your medication. The other causes are hypothyroidism, and hypoparathyroidismThey can also be due to peripheral vascular disease, vitamin B12 deficiency , neurological causes or malnutrition.

These also need to be evaluated. Thyroid function tests and nerve conduction velocity tests may also be needed.

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.