Scalp Problems
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Do you have a painful rash on your scalp?
See significance of a painful rash on your scalp if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Do you have severe pain from a rash or blisters on your scalp?
Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Do you have moderate pain from a rash or blisters on your scalp?
Note: Call your doctor as soon as possible. If your symptoms are caused by an infection with the herpes virus, you may be able to take a medicine to limit the pain and rash. Medicines work best if you start taking them within 2 to 3 days of the start of the rash.
You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Have you had mild to moderate pain from a rash or blisters for more than 3 to 4 days?
Note: Call your doctor as soon as possible. If your symptoms are caused by an infection with the herpes virus, you may be able to take a medicine to limit the pain and rash. Medicines work best if you start taking them within 2 to 3 days of the start of the rash.
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: July 3, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology | |
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