Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition where your body attacks the hair follicle causing thinning, weakening and hair loss. The frequency of hair thinning is not the same for all affected individuals. Some lose hair in just one or two spots whereas others lose a substantial portion from one side of their head that may fall out in clumps. In many cases, the hair grows back with proper care and medication.
There are several types of Alopecia Areata, the most common are:
Symptoms of alopecia areata include:
The symptoms of alopecia areata can vary from person to person, and some people may experience more severe hair loss or additional symptoms.
Studies have found that Alopecia Areata more common among African women and significantly impacts quality of life. Unfortunately, the underlying cause of alopecia areata is unknown, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder. In people with alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, which can cause hair loss.
However, the exact trigger for this autoimmune response has not been determined. There may be a genetic component to alopecia areata, as the condition is more common in people with a family history of the disorder. Some studies have also suggested that certain environmental factors, such as viral infections, emotional stress, or trauma, may trigger the autoimmune response.
While the exact cause of the condition is not fully understood, several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing alopecia areata, including:
Diagnosis of alopecia areata is usually made by a dermatologist or a medical doctor specializing in hair disorders.
The doctor will physically examine the scalp and affected areas of the body, looking for characteristic bald patches and other signs of hair loss. In many cases, a small scalp tissue or hair sample may be taken for laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis.
The severity and extent of hair loss is the primary complication of alopecia areata. It may cause you to experience emotional distress or low self-esteem due to changes in your appearance.
There is currently no cure for alopecia areata, but there are treatments available that may help to manage the symptoms and promote hair regrowth. Treatment options may include topical or injectable medications to reduce inflammation, stimulate hair growth, or suppress the immune response.
Some people may also benefit from hair transplantation or using wigs or hairpieces to conceal bald patches. An individual treatment plan, management and support are necessary for living with alopecia areata.