Which symptom would typically indicate a problem with the scalp?

Itching and flakiness are common symptoms that typically indicate a problem with the scalp. These symptoms often suggest irritation or underlying conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis. When the scalp experiences such issues, it may produce excessive dead skin cells, leading to flakiness, while itching can be a reaction to inflammation or an allergic response.

The other choices describe normal or healthy conditions of the hair rather than problems with the scalp. Shiny hair generally indicates good health and moisture retention, a smooth texture suggests hair that is well-conditioned and free of damage, and an even curl pattern reflects consistent hair texture and health. None of these symptoms point towards scalp issues, making itching and flakiness the clear indicator of a potential problem.