When I Touch My Scalp, It Hurts?
A tender scalp can be caused by several factors. It's crucial to determine the underlying cause for appropriate treatment.
Several conditions can cause a painful scalp. These include:
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Skin conditions: Dermatitis (including seborrheic and atopic dermatitis), psoriasis, and infections of the skin cells or hair follicles can all lead to scalp tenderness. These conditions can cause inflammation and irritation, making the scalp sensitive to touch. [Source: Medicalnewstoday, Verywellhealth, Health.com, Wimpole Clinic]
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Trauma: Injury to the scalp, such as a bump or friction from tight hairstyles or hair accessories, can result in pain and tenderness. Severe friction can even cause blisters or burns. [Source: Verywellhealth, Wimpole Clinic]
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Infections: Fungal or bacterial infections of the scalp can cause inflammation and pain. [Source: Medicalnewstoday]
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Allodynia: This condition involves increased sensitivity to touch, even light touch, and can affect the scalp. It is often associated with migraines. Even normal sensory signals, like touching the scalp, cause pain. [Source: WebMD, American Migraine Foundation]
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Headaches: Tension headaches, in particular, can cause a feeling of tightness and pressure on the scalp, making it tender to the touch. [Source: NHS]
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Systemic conditions: Conditions like fibromyalgia can cause widespread pain, including scalp tenderness. [Source: Reference provided with initial question]
Localised vs. Widespread Scalp Pain
The location of the pain can provide clues. Localized pain in one spot could indicate a specific injury, infection, or cyst. Widespread pain suggests a more systemic issue like a headache, dermatitis, or a systemic disease.
When to See a Doctor
If your scalp pain is severe, persistent, accompanied by other symptoms (fever, rash, etc.), or doesn't improve with home remedies, consult a doctor or dermatologist. They can properly diagnose the cause and recommend treatment.
