Just wondering if itchy scalp/head is a common symptom?

[Melarky]

Diagnosed overlap mctd. Have had itchy head for years really but not dandruff. I have read comments on internet re itchy scalp but not really sure if it’s related or not? It’s currently driving me nuts!? Is this a common complaint?! How do you treat it? Thanks all xx

[Chanpreet_Walia LUPUS UK]

Hi Melarky,

I am sorry to hear you've been experiencing this, have you spoken to your doctor about this? Also, have you requested a referral to see a dermatologist about this?

Skin involvement is common in lupus, with 60% to 70% of people with lupus reporting some sort of skin issue. Skin involvement can cause people to experience itchy rashes and skin which can become hot and swollen. We published a blog article on coping with itchy rashes which you may find useful to read at lupusuk.org.uk/coping-with-....

According to The Lupus Encyclopedia, avoiding harsh shampoos and conditioners can relieve the scalp and avoid natural oils from being removed. You may like to read our booklet on lupus and the skin at lupusuk.org.uk/wp-content/u...

Symptoms such as itchy skin can be exacerbated by UV light and stress. Learn more about this at lupusuk.org.uk/coping-with-...

Please keep us updated, wishing you all the best.

[Melarky in reply to Chanpreet_Walia]

Thanks for the information I’ll take a look 😊

[Lizard28]

Hi, I have overlap mctd as well. I had a very itchy scalp last year, doctor prescribed a shampoo for me but didn’t help. I was also diagnosed with lymphoma which the doctor didn’t think it was connected. When I started my treatment, it vanished. It was a mystery, maybe it was the mctd, I don’t know. Hope it gets better soon, it wasn’t nice.

[Crazy_Cat_Woman]

Hi Melarky - I have had an itchy, flaky scalp since I was a child. It was diagnosed as psoriasis, which runs in my family. I get open sores and scabs from scratching - nice!

I have used T-Gel most of my life to treat it. Recently a dermatologist prescribed me a clobetasol shampoo. It smells a bit nicer than T-Gel and seems quite effective.

Interestingly the dermatologist said my scalp rash didn’t look like a typical psoriasis rash and put it down to being lupus related instead.

My other family members with psoriasis use a variety of different shampoos and creams. There are a lot out there! My brother has successfully managed to clear much of his psoriasis up on an all meat diet. He has it all over his body and his diet has made a substantial improvement.

I don’t have the willpower for an all meat diet so I’m going to stick with clobetasol for now!

[Cas70]

The itchy scalp is how I got diagnosed. I had caused a scab and after my eyes became sore and I developed a dry mouth, I was sent for scalp biopsy. I have Discoid Lupus and Sjogren’s - you need to see a Dermatologist - take care not to scratch too much.

[miccika1]

Some medication can cause this. Look at all side effects for al meds you take. Also some vit deficiency can cause it. Check that too. Finally hormone inbalance can be the culprit. That's all i know...