DD has red itchy rash at the back of her neck and base of head

[Alsoflamingo]

She was scratching like mad last night and I just assumed it was the dreaded nits. But took a good look this morning and don't think it is that. Can't see any and she has a really nasty looking red rash on her scalp (bottom bit near neck) which is itching her like mad. Back of neck has the red rash. Anyone got any idea what it could be? We are away for half term so no local doctor. Will probably find a local pharmacy later this morning, but wondered if any of you brilliant MNers had any thoughts?

Have you checked for nits? Lifted the top layers of hair up and looked underneath? DD's friend had that once as she had been scratching her head so much from the nits that a rash formed on her neck.

I have had a pretty good look (although they can be super hard to spot I know). Can't see any.Looks almost like an eczema type rash. Just tried NHS 111 and they are calling back. Nothing worrying (she doesn't have a temperature or anything), but itching her like mad.

dd had that before a lice infestation. I originally thought it was some sort of eczema or reaction to some new blouses she was wearing. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Head_lice_infestation

To me, the only way to be sure its not nits is to use a nit comb. Nits love back of the neck/over the ears. It only takes one to cause lots of itch (and lay lots of eggs!

Did you wash her hair last night? Did you properly rinse?

Blimey LIZ. Maybe you're right. We are away for half term so am without my usual nit comb equipment….. That photo on your link has made me think it could be that.

And yes, Giles, the shower head where we are staying is hopeless so it is entirely possible I didn't manage to rinse properly when I washed her hair and wondering about that too.

Will rewash tonight and anyway easiest to check for nits when hair is wet…….