I have extreme hair loss/painful/itchy scalp.i now see my scalp.what can i do other than rogaine (minoxidil) that is affective.can this be serious how can i tell?

Physician exam: Loss of hair with a painful, itchy scalp could be associated with multiple problems. Physician review is a must. Hold on the rogaine (minoxidil) until you have an accurate diagnosis for your hair loss. Rogaine (minoxidil) may even cause itchy skin irritation. Consider review by a dermatologist or hair transplant surgeon. International society of hair transplant surgery.