A bit of itchy scalp, dry flakes or strands falling is no cause for concern, but even if one of the conditions is exacerbated it can signal towards hair, scalp or health problem. Here’s what you need to look out for:

1. Sticky, yellow dandruff: While white flakes may not be a problem and can be treated with the right anti-dandruff shampoo, but if you see sticky dandruff that’s accompanied by itchy scalp then you might be suffering from seborrhaic dermatitis. It can occur when the oil glands in your scalp get fungal infection and may need steroidal or antifungal cream

2. Excessive hair fall: Doctors say that it is normal to lose anywhere between 10 to 100 strands in a day. Your follicles continue to grow. However if you notice huge amount of hair coming out every time you touch your strands then you are having telogen effluvium. This occurs when you get a shock to your system after birth, surgery, long term medication etc. You do not really need medication since the hair will grow back. However eat a healthy diet along with vitamin supplements to help in the regrowth.

3. Bald patches: This is called alopecia areata in which your body’s immune system attacks the hair follicles causing hair to fall out suddenly in tufts creating patches of baldness on the scalp. It can impact a person psychologically. You may need treatment for the follicles to get active again.