Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden, patchy hair loss on the scalp, face, and sometimes other areas of the body. The immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair shedding. It can occur at any age and affects both men and women.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Autoimmune reaction: The body's immune system targets hair follicles.
- Genetics: A family history of alopecia areata increases the risk.
- Stress: Emotional or physical stress can trigger or worsen the condition.
- Other autoimmune diseases: People with thyroid disorders, vitiligo, or diabetes may have a higher risk.
Symptoms
- Small, round, smooth bald patches on the scalp or other body parts.
- Sudden hair loss that may grow back and fall out again.
- In some cases, complete scalp hair loss (alopecia totalis) or total body hair loss (alopecia universalis).
- Nail changes like ridges or white spots.
Treatment Options
While there's no permanent cure, treatments can help manage the condition:
- Topical corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and suppress the immune attack.
- Minoxidil (Rogaine): Stimulates hair regrowth.
- Immunotherapy: Chemicals like diphencyprone (DPCP) applied to the scalp can trigger an immune response that promotes hair growth.
- Steroid injections: Help regrow hair in small bald patches.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: Uses growth factors from the patient’s blood to stimulate hair regrowth.
- Homeopathy: Individualized treatments may help balance the immune system.
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