Scalp pain can be caused by factors that make it sensitive, such as infections and infestations, skin problems or hair loss, for example.
In addition, wearing hair that is too tight, such as braids or hairstyles that are tightly attached to the scalp, wearing a helmet for long periods or using aggressive shampoos can also cause pain and discomfort at the top of the head.
Usually, the treatment for this problem is simple and depends on the root cause. Thus, it is best to consult a dermatologist to assess the region and indicate the best treatment option.
1. Dermatitis
Dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction that generates symptoms such as redness, itching and peeling, and may be accompanied by the appearance of dandruff and blisters. This disease can occur at any age, due to contact with common things like metals, soaps, cosmetics, cosmetic procedures, pollution or even water. See more about dermatitis.
What to do: Treatment depends on the type of dermatitis and the root causes. The most frequent dermatitis on the scalp is seborrheic dermatitis, which is usually treated with the use of shampoos that contain ketoconazole, salicylic acid or zinc pyrithione, which can be found in Tarflex, Nizoral Pielus or Payot shampoos, for example. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to resort to repairing creams or topical corticosteroids.
2. Infections
Infections such as folliculitis and carbuncle can affect the hair follicles and cause sensitivity in the scalp, making it painful, sensitive and warm to the touch, being more frequent in people with diabetes, with skin diseases, such as eczema or those who have the weakened immune system.
The carbuncle is usually caused by an excess of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and folliculitis is usually caused by ingrown hairs, but it can also happen due to an infection by bacteria or fungi. In the most severe cases, folliculitis on the scalp can cause severe hair loss.
What to do: usually the use of antifungal shampoos, such as ketoconazole, or application of antibiotics, such as erythromycin or clindamycin, can solve the problem. However, some cases can be difficult to cure, requiring specific treatment for several months. In addition, you should also avoid sticking or squeezing boils and carbuncles, as there is a risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body.
3. Pediculosis
Pediculosis is a lice infestation, which usually affects children in school, and is very contagious. Lice feed only on blood and although they only live for about 30 days, they multiply very quickly, as each female lays between 7 to 10 nits a day, causing symptoms such as severe itching on the scalp that is painful and small sores on the scalp. head.
What to do: Pediculosis treatment consists of using a shampoo or lotion based on permethrin or dimethicone that kill lice and a fine comb to help eliminate them. In addition, a repellent product that can prevent further infestation can also be used. See more treatment options.
4. Headache
In some cases, the headache can also cause scalp pain. Stress, depression and anxiety can cause pain or worsen symptoms, and can also cause muscle tension.
What to do: To relieve the headache, you can massage the scalp, take a hot, relaxing bath and / or take painkillers and anti-inflammatories, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
5. Temporal arteritis
Temporal arteritis is a disease that causes chronic inflammation of the arteries of the bloodstream and causes symptoms such as headache, fever, anemia, tiredness and malaise and pain in the head and scalp, which can be throbbing. This type of pain is more common in the elderly and can lead to serious complications at the system and eye level. Learn more about temporal arteritis.
What to do: The treatment consists of relieving symptoms and preventing vision loss, with the use of corticosteroids, such as Prednisone, for example. In addition, the doctor may also recommend painkillers and antipyretics such as paracetamol and dipyrone to relieve fever, tiredness and general malaise.
6. Hair loss
Regions of the scalp where hair loss is more intense is usually more sensitive, which can make these places painful. Know what can cause hair loss.
What to do: To prevent hair loss, you must eat a balanced diet, rich in proteins, vitamins and zinc or take food supplements also rich in these nutrients such as Pill food or Ecophane, for example.
Anti-hair loss shampoos like Kerium anti-hair loss from La Roche Posay or Neogenic from Vichy and lotions like Minoxidil 5% or Neogenic in Vichy ampoules stimulate hair growth and help stop hair loss. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to take medications such as finasteride or propecia.
