What is the treatment for itchy and dry scalp?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 20-year-old male. I am having an itchy, red sore, painful scalp with hair loss. The doctor prescribed me Minoxidil, multivitamins, and shampoo. I am not using Minoxidil because of its side effects. Please help.

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

You may avoid restartingMinoxidil (Rogaine) for now, as it could further irritate your scalp. Once the primary issue is resolved, you can consider using it again. Use an antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory shampoo, such as Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE-AD Shampoo). Gently massage it into your scalp, leave it for three to five minutes, and rinse with cool water. Follow this routine daily for five days, then every other day for a week before returning to your regular shampoo.

Your scalp sore is likely a furuncle (bacterial infection). Take an antibiotic like Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid (Augmentin, Amoclan, Amoxiclav, Clavor) 625 mg twice daily for five days. To prevent stomach upset, take a probiotic containing Lactobacilli or consume yogurt twice daily. For pain and swelling, take Diclofenac Sodium (Cataflam, Diclofenac, Dicloced, Diclogesic, Volfenac) 50 mg twice daily for three days after meals. If symptoms persist, a KOH test (potassium hydroxide) may be needed to check for a fungal infection.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.