Your baby's head-scratching is likely a common behavior with a couple of potential explanations. According to experts, the most probable reasons are that she's either trying to relieve some pain or discomfort, or she's trying to soothe herself.
(Reference: 21-Oct-2022)
Here's a breakdown of these possibilities:
Possible Reasons for Head Scratching:
-
Relieving Discomfort:
- Dry Scalp: Babies can get dry skin on their scalp, leading to itchiness.
- Cradle Cap: This common condition causes scaly, greasy patches on the scalp that can be irritating.
- Eczema: Eczema can affect the scalp and cause intense itching.
- Teething: While it may seem unrelated, teething discomfort can sometimes manifest as general irritability, leading to scratching.
-
Self-Soothing:
- Tiredness: Babies often scratch or rub their heads when they're tired.
- Overstimulation: If your baby is overwhelmed by sights and sounds, she might scratch her head as a way to calm down.
- Habit: Sometimes, head-scratching simply becomes a habit, even if the initial cause is gone.
What You Can Do:
- Check for Skin Irritations: Carefully examine your baby's scalp for dryness, redness, or flakes.
- Moisturize the Scalp: If the scalp appears dry, use a gentle baby moisturizer.
- Treat Cradle Cap: If cradle cap is present, consult your pediatrician for recommendations.
- Keep Nails Short: Trim your baby's nails regularly to prevent skin damage from scratching.
- Distract and Redirect: When you notice your baby scratching, try to distract her with a toy or activity.
- Monitor and Consult: If the scratching is excessive, causing bleeding or hair loss, or if you're concerned about a skin condition, consult with your pediatrician.
