Scalp Conditions in Children

Scalp problems can affect not just adults but also children of all ages, be it infants, children or teenagers. The occurrence of these scalp conditions in children can be attributed to a variety of reasons. While most of them are fairly trivial in nature, certain scalp conditions might also be the result of an underlying medical problem. For children suffering from scaly scalp conditions, hair loss, itching and flaking are some of the most common symptoms.

Causes

Tinea Capitis (Fungal Infection): Scalp ringworm also known as tinea capitis is a fungal infection commonly observed in children. For those suffering from these scalp conditions, pimples, scaly, inflamed red spots and patches of broken hair on the head may be a common occurrence. They are passed on to children by direct contact with the infected people or with contaminated objects such as combs and pillows. In certain cases the fungus can spread from infected cats and dogs or from the soil. While anyone can contract the infection it is most frequently observed in children between the age of 3 to 7 years. For treating the condition, the doctor might prescribe oral antifungal medication and medicated shampoos.

Dermatomyositis: This is a rare connective tissue disease that results in muscle weakness, tenderness in large muscle groups and other eczematous skin findings. For more information on the disease and its treatment, consult a rheumatologist.

Cradle Cap: One of the most common scalp conditions in toddlers is a form of seborrheic dermatitis known as cradle cap. Usually found in children after birth till about 12 months after birth, cradle cap is a yellowish, patchy, greasy, scaly skin rash affecting newborn children. Cradle cap will often clear without treatment, but applying olive oil or mineral oil can help speed up the process. Applying vaseline or hydrocortisone cream to the affected areas for several hours may also help resolve the problem.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Atopic dermatitis, or eczema is a chronic skin condition which may be the reason for dry scalp conditions in children. Scabs, inflamed itchy skin, pimples and other dry skin symptoms may signify eczema in children. This condition is usually the result of factors such as allergies, irritants or other factors such as stress.

Psoriasis: A chronic, non contagious autoimmune disorder, scalp psoriasis causes thick reddish scaly patches on the scalp. The condition may also affect the elbows, knees, or the groin. Affecting nearly 2 % of world's population, psoriasis can be mild or severe. Based on the severity and the location the doctors may prescribe cortisone cream for local application or systemic medications may be taken.

Scabies: Caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mites, this contagious ectoparasite skin infection is characterized by intense itching, rashes and superficial burrows on the skin. This is caused by the mites burrowing into the top dead layer of skin eating dead skin cell debris. For treating scalp conditions caused by scabies the physician may recommend permethrin cream or lindane lotion or shampoo.

Dry Scalp: Dandruff in children results in excessive shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp and flaking. Affecting older children and adolescents, dry scalp, or dandruff, can be due to frequent heat or cold, dry air, allergic reaction and lack of moisture of the body. Sometimes changing hair care products like shampoos can also result in a dry scalp. Switching to a good anti dandruff shampoo is a good dandruff solution.

For preventing these dreadful scalp conditions in children, daily hair washing and brushing is the best course of action. Keep your children healthy and provide them with a balanced diet. Scalp condition in kids may also be the result of improper nutrition and diet. If your child continues to suffer from chronic scalp problems then it is best to consult a pediatrician right away.