Pharmacist warns not to ignore itchy scalp as it can be linked to health issue

26 January 2024 , 11:38

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Itchy scalps can be irritating - but they can be a sign of a wider health issue (Stock Image) (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

If you're struggling with an itchy scalp for a prolonged period of time, it's important not to ignore it, as it could be a symptom of a wider health issue.

Itching your head from time to time isn't something to worry about - you may just need to give your hair a good wash - but if it becomes a regular habit, it could be a sign of something more serious.

Health experts at the online pharmacy Chemist Click have warned that an itchy scalp could signal increased blood sugar levels as a result of uncontrolled or undiagnosed diabetes.

According to the latest statistics from diabetes.org.uk, there are around 850,000 people across the UK who are suffering from diabetes and are yet to be diagnosed - which means if you do suffer from an itchy scalp, it may be worth speaking to your GP.

Pharmacist Abbas Kanani says: "High blood sugars can cause inflammation and damage organs, tissues, and blood vessels. This can leave your body struggling to transport oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles, which can damage the hair growth cycle."

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This is because circulation can be poor when you have diabetes, and this can result in dry, itchy skin. "Bacteria is allowed to grow when there are high sugar levels in your blood and tissues, and this also helps infections develop more quickly", Kanani shared with Gloucestershire Live.

Another recurring health condition that may suggest undiagnosed diabetes is yeast infections. It can trigger an itchy, flaky rash on your scalp because of an imbalance of the skin's flora from an overgrowth of yeast.

You may notice a red or purple rash, cracks, or patches on the skin, white, flaky scales or shedding, areas that appear soft, moist, and white or white, pus-filled pimples - and of course, itching.

An itchy scalp may not be the only symptom you get from undiagnosed diabetes, as you could also experience hair loss or alopecia areata. This hair loss occurs because a person's immune system attacks their hair follicles. Researchers don't know for certain what causes this, but if you have diabetes, you are more likely to experience alopecia.

For more information on an itchy scalp and diabetes, head to diabetes.co.uk.

Danielle Kate Wroe