Hair Loss & Itchy Scalp

[Hair777]

My scalp is very red, slightly smelly and itchy, however it is only down the centre part of my hair.  In addition, I am losing handfuls of hair every time I wash it.  I have tried oral antibiotics, topical antifungals, corticosteriods, coconut oil, Head & Shoulders shampoo for itchy scalp, Nizoral shampoo and Neutrogena Tar shampoo, however, nothing has improved my scalp. It started about five months ago and it is getting more severe.  
Has anyone ever experienced this and what treatment has worked for you?

[Hair777]

I have seen a Dermatologist for four months.  A biopsy was taken and results show nothing.  He suspects Telogen Effeluvium, however, this does not explain the itch.  My physician still feels it is a fungal infection.  He has prescribed an oral antifungal and Prednisone.

[Arti Sharma, M.D.]

Hi there,

Hope you are doing well. Every person has some hair loss. Hair loss of about 50-100 per day is normal.

the common causes  of hair loss:
1)Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder also known as "spot baldness" that can result in hair loss ranging from just one location. Traction alopecia - with ponytails or cornrows, pulling on hair with excessive force.
2)Temporary loss of hair can occur in areas where sebaceous cysts are present.
3) Traumas such as chemotherapy, childbirth, major surgery, poisoning, and severe stress may cause a hair loss condition known as telogen effluvium.
4) Iron deficiency
5) Mycotic infections can cause massive hair loss.
6) Hypothyroidism can cause hair loss, typically frontal, and is particularly associated with thinning of the outer third of the eyebrows.
7) Hyperthyroidism can also cause hair loss.
For acne you the severity and extent of your acne has to be considered here. Acne occurs when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and/or bacteria.

Apart from hereditary factors which may cause hyperactive sebaceous glands, certain diets (high in refined sugars and processed foods) and hormonal changes are associated with outbreaks of acne lesions.
You may try using OTC bactericidal products containing benzoyl peroxide in mild to moderate acne. Antibiotics such as erythromycin, clindamycin can be applied on the lesions. Keep the skin clean by washing it 2-3 times.
It would be best to consult a skin specialist for your symptoms to find out the cause of your complaints. Increase the intake of proteins in your diet, take a multi vitamin and zinc supplements. Adequate sleep and hydration are also important. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner. You might need to get investigated further maybe to establish a cause of the hair loss - hormone levels, thyroid function tests, any skin disease etc. This would help in establishing a diagnosis and then planning further management of your symptoms.
Keep me posted. Hope this helps.
Good luck and regards!