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What causes a constant itch on the scalp with white flakes?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have an itchy scalp. It is constant, and when I scratch, white flakes come out. What should I do about it?

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sandhya Narayankutty is a General Practioner and Family Physician with more than eight years of clinical experience. She completed her MBBS from Cochin University of Science and Technology and MD in Dermatology and Venereology at the Uzhhorod National University. She is currently practicing in Thrissur.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

As per the history you have provided, you may have seborrheic dermatitis, which is also otherwise known as dandruff. Dandruff can be oily or dry. In your case, it may be dry. As of now, start using a combination of Salicylic acid, Ketoconazole, and zinc pyridone shampoo. Use it twice a week. Apply the shampoo after taking a coin-shaped amount and diluting it with water before applying.

Apply, massage, and leave it on the scalp for about five minutes before washing it off. Use for two months. In case of recurrence of symptoms, use Ketoconazole cream. It should be applied twice daily behind the ears and may be used on areas where it is very itchy and dry on the scalp. Apply and leave it just like applying a cream. Proper hydration is essential for dry scalp and eczema. Drink at least 102 ounces ​of water daily. It will help you reduce dryness to a great extent. Depending on how hydrated our bodies are, the climate we are exposed to, our age, and many other factors, eczema and dry scalp can appear on and off.

If symptoms recur later in life, please follow the above advice and repeat the treatment. Please consult a doctor for a local examination.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At August 24, 2022
Reviewed At September 6, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sandhya Narayankutty is a General Practioner and Family Physician with more than eight years of clinical experience. She completed her MBBS from Cochin University of Science and Technology and MD in Dermatology and Venereology at the Uzhhorod National University. She is currently practicing in Thrissur.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sandhya Narayankutty is a General Practioner and Family Physician with more than eight years of clinical experience. She completed her MBBS from Cochin University of Science and Technology and MD in Dermatology and Venereology at the Uzhhorod National University. She is currently practicing in Thrissur.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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