What is a common symptom that may indicate a scalp infection?

A common symptom that may indicate a scalp infection is characterized by redness, swelling, or the presence of pus. These symptoms are indicative of inflammation and infection, which are responses to an underlying issue, such as a bacterial or fungal infection. When the scalp is infected, the body's immune response leads to increased blood flow to the area, resulting in redness and swelling. The presence of pus often indicates that there is an accumulation of white blood cells fighting the infection.

In contrast, symptoms such as dryness and flakiness may be associated with conditions like dandruff or eczema, rather than an infection. Excessive oiliness could point toward seborrheic dermatitis or other scalp conditions but does not specifically suggest an infection. Unusual hair loss can occur due to various reasons, including stress or hormonal imbalances, and while it could be associated with an unhealthy scalp, it is not a definitive indicator of an infection. Therefore, the combination of redness, swelling, and pus is a clear signal of a scalp infection needing professional assessment and treatment.