Psoriasis of the head significantly reduces the quality of human life and requires a lot of effort and money for treatment. The constant struggle with the symptoms of psoriasis and the feeling that you are not like everyone else creates a special psychological problem. This burden is especially difficult for young people who do not yet have a family of their own. After all, people around them often perceive head lice peeling or think that a person is unclean. In fact, scaly lichen is not contagious and occurs mainly as a hereditary disease.
Causes
Scalp psoriasis occurs in children and adults. Its appearance, like the current one, is unpredictable. Scientists still do not understand why and for what specific reason the psoriatic rash appears on the human body and affects the scalp. They were able to establish that the appearance of psoriasis on the head and other parts of the body is preceded by a violation of the functions of the epidermis. This happens to the skin after exposure to an external irritant, for example after using a low-quality shampoo or body gel.
Subsequently, it became known that many factors contribute to the development of psoriasis, for example:
- malnutrition;
- alcohol abuse;
- infectious skin diseases;
- general intoxication of the body;
- hormonal imbalance;
- endocrine disorders;
- weakening of immunity;
- allergic reactions.
This is not a complete list of what can affect the severity of scalp disease.
The psoriatic elements of the scalp are formed, as in other localizations, in the upper layer of the epidermis, so they rarely disrupt the growth of individual hairs and provoke their loss.
If you look, then all these and other, not mentioned here, causal factors have one thing in common - the ability to adversely affect metabolic processes in the skin. But this is one of the main reasons causing abnormal proliferation of epidermal cells.
Symptoms of different types of diseases
The following forms of psoriasis can appear on the head:
- Vulgar - another name for plaque psoriasis, is diagnosed in 90% of cases. It is characterized by the appearance of small papules and red spots on the scalp. Their surface is covered with dry silver scales, which are easily removed with nails. The elements of the rash gradually increase, then merge into one and represent islets with a scaly gray surface.
- Pustular - exudative psoriasis, considered the most serious form of the disease, manifests itself in small blisters with yellow or transparent contents. The skin underneath is swollen and hot. If left untreated, it is possible for ulcers formed by open blisters to become infected with a bacterial infection.
- Drop-shaped - develops against the background of streptococcal infection. The elements of the rash are teardrop-shaped and tend to enlarge.
What does psoriasis of the head look like at different stages
The initial stage of psoriasis of the head most often has symptoms similar to other dermatoses (there are coincidences with common dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, etc. ). Therefore, only a specialist can correctly diagnose the disease in order to subsequently choose an effective course of treatment.
At each stage of the development of psoriasis of the scalp, the following pathological changes are observed:
- A small, itchy, papular rash appears. Its elements are rounded and red or pink. At this stage, a characteristic feature of psoriatic eruptions is the formation of silvery scales on their surface, which flake off when combed. The inflammatory process is absent, so the patient with psoriasis is irritated only by itching and slight flaking of the skin.
- In the second stage of psoriasis, which in medicine is called progressive, the papules, enlarging, unite into single islets and cover most of the scalp. The itching of the skin intensifies, leading to scratching and inflammation. In the absence of appropriate treatment, the infection enters the skin through scratching and causes the appearance of purulent pustules and yellow crusts under the hair.
- At the inpatient stage, when the drugs used have brought the desired effect, the psoriatic plaques stop growing in size and the inflammation subsides. Due to the exfoliation of the whitish layer from the surface of the plaques, a lot of dandruff is observed in the hair, the itching becomes less intense.
- After a while, the plaques on the scalp lighten, some disappear without a trace, stop the itching. Elasticity returns to the skin. Here's what psoriasis looks like in remission.
If it is not possible to stop the progression of psoriasis, the scalp thickens, resulting in easy injury. Psoriatic plaques do not stop growing due to the appearance of new papules. When combing from their surface, huge scales of dead skin are removed, which cannot be completely combed by the hair.
Localization of the skin disease
If psoriatic plaques have formed on the scalp and affected the entire scalp, then over time they can spread beyond the area of hair growth to the smooth skin of the forehead to catch the area of the temples. Psoriasis can occur on the back of the head and upper neck, on the skin behind the ears and on their foreheads. This form of localization of the disease is called "psoriatic crown".
Diagnostic characteristics
To diagnose the initial stage of psoriasis, it is not enough for a dermatologist to examine the scalp for small itchy papules or psoriatic plaques. Such elements of the rash are characteristic of a number of other diseases, therefore, in addition to the examination and interviewing of the patient, the differential diagnosis is mandatory.
This type of examination allows you to distinguish psoriasis of the head from other dermatoses, which are also a favorite place for localization of the scalp. It is worth mentioning here:
- seborrhea - this is dandruff, a consequence of improper functioning of the sebaceous glands;
- rosacea - characterized by the appearance of papules and pustules on the reddened swelling of the skin, as in psoriasis;
- pityriasis versicolor - affects hair follicles, causes the formation of papules around the hair.
When diagnosing psoriasis, the symptoms of the phenomena combined with the name "psoriatic triad" are also taken into account. It includes three symptomatic phenomena:
- Stearin stain - when scraping a papule or psoriatic plaque, its surface becomes white, the scales peel off.
- Terminal film - the surface of the papule after removal of the scales becomes pink and shiny.
- Spot bleeding - occurs after scraping and removing scales from a single papule or psoriatic plaque.
In the process of diagnosis, the presence of the Kebner phenomenon is taken into account, when about 15-20 days after the skin injury a psoriatic element is formed on the affected area. The symptom is characteristic of the progressive stage of psoriasis.
How to get rid of psoriasis of the head
The doctor draws up an effective plan for the treatment of psoriasis, taking into account the general health of the patient, the form of the disease and the severity of its course.
The general treatment regimen includes:
- the use of drugs for external and internal (sometimes) purposes;
- compliance with dietary rules;
- physiotherapy sessions;
- preventive hair care.
Scalp psoriasis is not dangerous, except for the pustular form of the disease, so some of the procedures prescribed by the doctor can be performed at home.
What drugs in the pharmacy help
Preparations for the treatment of psoriasis of the scalp are prescribed, taking into account the stage of development of the disease:
- Progressive stage. Prescribe daily washing of the head with a special shampoo with zinc, then apply a therapeutic lotion or salicylic ointment on the scalp 2 times a day. Remedies relieve itching, inflammation, help exfoliate dead cells of the epidermis, strengthen blood vessels of the skin.
- Stationary stage. Within 2-3 weeks, 5% lactic or salicylic acid is used to treat psoriatic plaques. The solutions soften the stratum corneum and promote its exfoliation, as well as help other drugs to penetrate the affected epidermis. Among them, a cream based on naphthalene improves local blood circulation, softens the skin and relieves inflammation. Non-hormonal ointments for psoriasis, containing a synthetic analogue of vitamin D3, which stops the process of division of epidermal cells, contributes to their normal maturation.
- The symptom relief stage (regression stage) is used to treat the scalp with conditioners, shampoos and ointments based on juniper or birch tar. The effect of these drugs is aimed at improving metabolic processes and blood microcirculation in the scalp. Purified tar has anti-inflammatory, absorbent, antipruritic and exfoliating effects.
In addition to medical treatment, for people with scalp psoriasis, homeopathic remedies help well during the period when the symptoms of the disease are relieved. For example, made on the basis of such substances:
- lanolin (animal wax), which softens the stratum corneum;
- berberine - relieves inflammation;
- Mahonia Holly extract - prevents the growth of immature cells of the epidermis and desquamation.
In severe psoriasis of the scalp patients are prescribed to relieve inflammation with hormonal tablets, cleaning droppers Magnesium sulfate, sodium thiosulfate, immunomodulatory drugs.
How to cure psoriasis of the scalp with folk remedies
Masks prepared on the basis of medicinal plants, liquid mixtures and decoctions for washing with shampoo will help remove psoriatic plaques from the skin.
Hormonal ointment with celandine
Ingredients:
- freshly picked (preferably) herb celandine - 1 tbsp. l. ;
- refined grease - 100 g.
Method of preparation: mix the ingredients, mix well, leave for 3 days in a dark and warm place to infuse.
Result: the product softens the stratum corneum of the scalp, eliminates itching and flaking, relieves inflammation.
How to use: apply the ointment in a thin layer on the plates for no more than 5 days in a row, as the composition contains a hormonal component that is addictive.
Mustard mask for scalp psoriasis
Ingredients:
- mustard powder - 2 tbsp. l. ;
- hot water - 2 tbsp. l. ;
- vegetable oil - 2 tbsp. l. ;
- chicken yolk - 1 pc. ;
- sugar - 2 tsp
Preparation: add sugar mixed with mustard powder, butter and water to the yolk while beating.
How to use: apply a mixture of psoriasis on the scalp, rub, put on a cellophane hat, warm your head with a towel. The procedure should last at least 15 minutes. At first the skin will tingle and then it will start to burn. After the mask, the head is washed with lukewarm water with tar shampoo. Repeat the procedure every 2-3 days until the exacerbation lasts.
Result: the mask reduces itching, causes blood flow to the scalp, improves the local metabolic process and helps to soften and exfoliate the stratum corneum.
Decoction for rinsing hair after washing
Ingredients:
- amaranth seeds - 2 tbsp;
- amaranth leaves - 1 teaspoon;
- boiling water - 750 ml.
Preparation: put the seeds in an enamel bowl, pour boiling water, simmer 5 minutes, add the leaves of the plant, put on heat for 30 minutes. Strain.
How to use: rinse your hair after washing with medicated shampoos.
Result: hair with psoriasis is easier to comb, becomes soft and silky. In addition, the broth relieves inflammation, strengthens local immunity.
Eating rules
During the treatment of psoriasis on the head it is important to include in the menu foods that are a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (mackerel, sardines, herring, venison, flaxseed, spinach). You should also eat cereals and cereal soups (buckwheat, oats, rice), vegetable stews (beets, cabbage, potatoes), fresh fruits and berries, juices, herbal teas, dairy products.
It is recommended to cook food by cooking, baking and stewing. It is better to eat little by little, but 5-6 times a day. Excessively salty, spicy, smoked and fried foods, as well as pastries and alcohol are prohibited.
How is psoriasis of the head treated with physiotherapy?
Such an effective treatment as physiotherapy for psoriasis is prescribed at all stages of the disease, except for exacerbation.
Applied methods:
- Electrosleep - improves a person's psychological state.
- PUVA therapy - relieves inflammation, improves the condition of the scalp.
- Phototherapy - normalizes metabolic processes in the skin, helps to prolong remission.
- Physiotherapy sessions bring the desired result only with regular and proper procedures.
Hair care
During the treatment of psoriasis of the scalp is recommended the use of cosmetics and hair masks with a therapeutic effect:
- Shampoos with birch and juniper tar.
- Medicinal oils for use in the form of masks (burdock, castor, amaranth, stone, naphthalene, black currant, sesame).
With psoriasis, the head can be washed daily, the main thing is not to damage the skin until it bleeds when washed.
Lifestyle adjustment
Because psoriasis is often exacerbated by stress, good mood helps to combat its manifestations on the head, which come every day only in people leading an active and healthy lifestyle.
A healthy night's sleep is a guarantee of good mood, so after a hard day you can take a tincture of peony or motherwort at night.
Also, psoriasis in the scalp is afraid of proper nutrition, so you need to take seriously the preparation of a therapeutic diet. For this purpose you can consult a nutritionist.
The course of psoriasis in childhood and features of therapy
Scalp psoriasis in children proceeds in the same way as in adults, with exacerbations and remissions. For the treatment of psoriatic papules and plaques on the child's head, the doctor chooses drugs, taking into account the age of the young patient and the presence of concomitant dermatological diseases. The initial stage of the pathology is easier to treat, therefore all procedures recommended by the doctor are performed at home.
In case the psoriatic elements occupy most of the head, then the doctors suggest the parents to hospitalize the child. Inpatient treatment is performed:
- calcium gluconate - relieves itching, swelling, inflammation;
- vitamins A, E, D and group B - strengthen the general and local immunity;
- in case of restless night's sleep it is prescribed sleeping pills.
During the treatment period you should take care of the inflamed scalp of the child with the help of the means prescribed by the doctor.
Can psoriasis be cured forever?
So far, there is no cure for psoriasis. The most effective that pharmaceutical products can offer the patient to temporarily get rid of the psoriatic rash are drugs in various dosage forms with anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and exfoliating action. Vitamin D3 has shown its effectiveness, which slows down pathological changes in the skin, as well as a number of physiotherapy procedures.