Itchy Scalp From Bacteria
Bacteria of the scalp can be found with other scalp problems. According to MayoClinic.com, seborrheic dermatitis is caused by a fungus, but bacteria is usually present with the fungus 1. Finding a cause for your scalp itchiness can be difficult, but folliculitis, an inflammation of your hair follicles, usually results from bacteria and can cause itchiness.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a bacterial infection on your scalp can include itchiness, bumps and pus-filled pimples. Some bacterial infections, such as:
- pseudomonas follculitis
- can even cause nausea
- vomiting
- headache
- cramps,
- sore throat
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, psuedomonas follculitis is not limited to your scalp, but can affect other areas of your body with hair.
Diagnosis
Home Treatment for Vaginal Ingrown Hairs
Learn More
Finding a cause for your itchiness may be difficult, and a doctor will be needed to assist you in finding a cure. Normally, a dermatologist will know what is causing your itchiness by examining the skin of your scalp. They will collect a sample of your rash or scalp area to run lab tests. This will determine the kind of bacteria that may be causing your problems.
- Finding a cause for your itchiness may be difficult, and a doctor will be needed to assist you in finding a cure.
- Normally, a dermatologist will know what is causing your itchiness by examining the skin of your scalp.
Treatment
Treatment can begin once the doctor has found that your scalp is itching because of bacteria and not a fungus or other problem. Antibiotics can be given, usually in a prescription shampoo or creme. If the bacteria is severe enough, the doctor may consider giving you an oral dose of antibiotics. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that bacteria infections like folliculitis will respond well to this kind of treatment, but it may come back 2.
- Treatment can begin once the doctor has found that your scalp is itching because of bacteria and not a fungus or other problem.
Prevention
Scalp Rash in Toddlers
Learn More
It is important to keep your hair and scalp clean to avoid bacteria infections form growing. Pseudomonas folliculitis is commonly acquired in warm waters such as whirlpools, so avoidance of these water sources can help. You should also avoid wearing other people's hats and clothing that may have contacted bacteria.
Considerations
Itchy hair can be from many sources. Some of them can be contagious and may spread to others if you do not treat the problem. Speak with a doctor about your itchy scalp and follow his treatment instructions carefully.
Related Articles
References
- MayoClinic.com: Seborrheic Dermatitis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Folliculitis
- Ranganathan S, Mukhopadhyay T. Dandruff: the most commercially exploited skin disease. Indian J Dermatol. 2010;55(2):130-4. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.62734
- Gavazzoni dias MF. Hair cosmetics: an overview. Int J Trichology. 2015;7(1):2-15. doi:10.4103/0974-7753.153450
- Datta HS, Mitra SK, Paramesh R, Patwardhan B. Theories and management of aging: modern and ayurveda perspectives. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011;2011:528527. doi:10.1093/ecam/nep005
- Carson CF, Hammer KA, Riley TV. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2006;19(1):50-62. doi:10.1128/CMR.19.1.50-62.2006
- Satchell AC, Saurajen A, Bell C, Barnetson RS. Treatment of dandruff with 5% tea tree oil shampoo. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2002;47(6):852-5. doi:10.1067/mjd.2002.122734
- Huang TH, Wang PW, Yang SC, Chou WL, Fang JY. Cosmetic and therapeutic applications of fish oil's fatty acids on the skin. Mar Drugs. 2018;16(8). doi:10.3390/md16080256
- Piccardi N1, Manissier P. "Nutrition and nutritional supplementation: Impact on skin health and beauty." Dermatoendocrinol. 2009 Sep;1(5):271-4.
Writer Bio
Matt Berry is a radiologic technologist who started writing professionally in 2007. He specializes in health and medical articles and has been published in "Radiologic Technology." Berry holds a Bachelor of Science in radiology technology from Mount Marty College and is credentialed in radiography and computed tomography with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.