Diseases Similar to Dandruff

The minute we see any white flakes, or merely any bits of white on our head, we instantly think dandruff.  That is a normal reaction.  It is a fairly decent assumption, as that is the most common affliction to pervade one’s scalp.  One should be more careful, however, and seek to be better informed.  While dandruff is very common, it is not the only malady that can afflict the scalp.  Those flakes on your hair could be a sign of a more serious condition, or it could be something else all together.

The most commonly mistaken condition for dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis.  Dandruff in this case is only a symptom, and the shedding of dead skin cells occurs at a higher rate in comparison to regular scruff (another name for dandruff).  The cause of this disease is relatively unknown.  One explanation has to do with the condition running within the family, so your genes might play a factor.  To determine if it is seborrhea and not normal dandruff, one should watch out for red inflamed patches of oily skin.  Above normal itchiness can also signify this condition.  The clincher though, is if you notice flaking on other parts of the body as well, like on your eyebrows, behind the ears and in your armpits among others.  Treatment for this disease is similar to that of dandruff on the scalp, but creams with similar ingredients are also used around the body.

Psoriasis is also another disease similar to seborrheic dermatitis.  Symptoms can occur anywhere but especially on your knees, elbows, ears and of course, the scalp.  In this case however, patches of skin look a little lighter than red, and the scales that appear are silvery in color.  The cause of this is not sure, but it could either be a disorder of skin reproduction or an auto-immune related problem.  There are different treatments for psoriasis, but whether it be by topical creams, pills, or lasers, the decision should be discussed with your doctor.

Another serious problem that can be mistaken for dandruff is head lice.  If white specs are found further on the hair shaft, then it could just be dandruff.  But if they are found closer to the scalp and is not easily removed by brushing or shampooing, then it wouldn’t be a stretch to assume that you have head lice.  Like dandruff, there are also creams, lotions and shampoos available for treatment.  The ingredients used however, like Piperonyl Butoxide, Lindane, and Permethrin, can cause unwanted side affects.  So one should consult a physician and follow instructions closely.

Sometimes dandruff is assumed even if there are no flecks present.  Itchiness and redness alone can confuse people as to the precise nature of their condition.  Eczema is one skin disease that can cause this.  People sensitive to certain allergens can develop a sudden bout of itching and red patches may appear.  A combination of oral and topical treatments will be prescribed to manage your situation if eczema is diagnosed.  Whatever you have though, scratching is not a treatment option.  This can lead to infections and even more serious conditions.  If you must, use the pads of your fingers, instead of your nails, to manage your discomfort.

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