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 Scalp sores can be described as a skin disorder, which affects the skin on your head. There are several different factors that could cause sores to crop up on your scalp and some of them are more serious than the others. Sores on the scalp could appear in different forms, such as red lesions that bleed, yellowish scales or peeling skin. In some instances, these sores disappear within a short period of time, whereas others may suffer from lesions that won’t heal or keep coming back.

Scalp sores should always be checked by a dermatologist immediately, because they could be a symptom of a serious underlying health condition or disorder. Some of the factors that cause sores on the scalp include:

• Bacterial infections, which include impetigo
• Climatic conditions such as cold weather or dry environments
• Contamination of the hair follicle
• Deficiency of certain vitamins and nutrients in the body
• Excessive stress
• Fungal infections like ringworm
• Head lice
• Immune system diseases such as pemphigus, psoriasis  and HIV/ AIDS
• Inflammatory skin conditions, like Seborrheic Dermatitis
• Lack of proper hygiene
• Poor or inadequate circulation of blood to the scalp area
• Use of certain medication, or hair products that contain harsh chemicals

Scalp sores can be contagious in some cases; you may also contract this problem because of sharing combs, hairbrushes, hats, caps or scarves with a person who is already infected.

For many individuals, scalp sores are nothing more than an unsightly problem, which is why they do not get it treated. However, left unchecked, scalp sores could lead to:

• Dandruff
• Severe itching
• Hair loss
• Redness and irritation

The treatment of scalp sores may vary, depending upon the underlying causes. In case the problem occurs because of lifestyle factors, your doctor may advise you to:

• Drink at least 8 glasses of water, to flush out the toxins from your body
• Follow a diet that is high in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients
• Get an adequate amount of rest and exercise during the day
• Massage your scalp for about 15 to 20 minutes each day
• Switch over to hair products that are mild, natural and free of harsh chemicals
• Use a mild, over-the-counter antifungal shampoo

If the sores on your scalp are a result of an underlying medical problem, your doctor may first need to treat the condition. The treatment for scalp sores usually includes:

• Topical creams and ointments
• Medication, which may include antibiotics
• Injections
• Phototherapy

Treating scalp sores can be a lengthy and complicated procedure and therefore, it is important to consult a doctor.

References

1. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000963.htm
2. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/head-lice/DS00953

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.

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