Dandruff is a common skin disorder that can be embarrassing but, fortunately, it is not harmful and is not contagious. There are many over the counter treatments for dandruff, but if this condition persists it is best to seek medical attention.
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is a shedding of the skin on the scalp that leads to white flakes on the head, neck and shoulders. Despite what many people believe, having dandruff does not mean you are not clean or you have dirty hair.
What causes dandruff?
No one is really sure what causes dandruff. It is probably caused by a fungus. Hair follicles and oil glands make an oil called sebum which may be a breeding ground for yeast or fungus. This fungus usually lives on your skin, but too much fungus may lead to dandruff. Too much sebum also may cause dandruff. Being exposed to a lot of dry air can cause the skin to dry out and flake, which can look like dandruff.
Dandruff triggers
Dandruff tends to be worse during dry months. Cold, dry weather in particular can make dandruff worse. Stress or fatigue can trigger or aggravate dandruff.
Conditions that lead to flaky scalp
Skin problems like acne, eczema and psoriasis can cause a buildup of dead skin cells on the scalp. People with serious medical problems such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and HIV are prone to developing dandruff. For unclear reasons, people recovering from a stroke, heart attack or head injury, are also more likely to have dandruff.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms of dandruff include white, oily-looking flakes of dead skin in your hair and on your shoulders and an itchy, scaling scalp. Dandruff can occur whether you have an oily scalp or a dry scalp.
Diagnosis of dandruff
You do not need a doctor to diagnose dandruff. You can do this yourself. If you see the characteristic white flakes on your scalp, you have dandruff. If dandruff persists despite home treatments you might need to see a doctor to rule out more serious conditions that might mimic dandruff.
Treatment
A variety of shampoos, containing different ingredients, are available for treating dandruff. Trying several will help you find out which antidandruff shampoo is most effective for you.
Conclusion
Dandruff is a common chronic scalp condition marked by itching and flaking of the skin on your scalp. It affects both male and female and can be embarrassing for those who have it. Fortunately, it is not a serious medical disorder.Dandruff can almost always be controlled, but dandruff treatment may take a little patience and persistence.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Dr Brett Hodge is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over thirty years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in the Johnson Building in The Valley.
