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New Member: Itchy, Scaly Scalp

rockosmom

By rockosmom
in Dermatitis Herpetiformis

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rockosmom Newbie
rockosmom
Posted

A little background: Diagnosed by biopsy with celiac Sept. 18, 2002 (it was so traumatic I remember the exact date - I'd never heard of it). Symptoms included severe combined anemia and IBS.

I've learned how to live a very full gluten-free lifestyle: I'm in a gourmet club and I enjoy coming up with gluten-free alternatives and substitutions. Someday I'll write a book.

My health has improved; I'm positively robust! All previous symptoms are GONE.

However, for the past 4-5 months I've been plagued with an oddly symmetrical rash/itchy scalp/scabs on my head. No where else on my entire body. Has never happened to me before. Fairly sudden onset. I've examined my shampoos, etc. which are mild and gluten-free as far as I can determine. I've gone through 2 bottles of T-

Gel medicated shampoo by Nutrogena. No difference. My local health food store suggested Emu Oil at $16.00 for a tiny bottle; no difference.

The spots are on the back upper left & right parts of my head, and as I said, are very symmetrical.

Question: have I developed DH? I think I'm fairly strict about being gluten-free, and all my digestive symptoms have disappeared. Any suggestions on other treatments?

This is driving me crazy!

Thank you anyone, for your feedback.

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gf4life Enthusiast
gf4life
Posted

Hi rockosmom,

I was wondering if you have asked your doctor about it? I also have a lot of itching and scaly scalp. For me it is Psoriasis (and DH), and although I am gluten free and the DH is gone I still have the Psoriasis, but it is not as bad. When I have a gluten accident one fo my first symptoms is DH blisters on my scalp and around the hairline of my neck. I have not found any wonderful treatment for my scalp Psoriasis, but a dermatologist might be able to help you out. If you have been gluten-free for over a year and a half, then realistically it shouldn't be DH, unless you are still getting hidden gluten from somewhere. If you do go to a dermatologist, make sure you tell them that you have Celiac and maybe they can biopsy the rash to check if it is DH.

God bless,

Mariann

rockosmom Newbie
rockosmom
Posted
  • Author

Thanks; I'm calling my clinic tomorrow and insisting on a referral to a dermatologist. I hope to report back something positive!

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