There are many different types of hair loss, from male pattern to lichen planopilaris. Alopecia areata is one of the types of hair loss. Shedding of hair forming coin-sized round areas without additional findings is called alopecia areata. It occurs as a result of an autoimmune reaction. The body’s immune cells attack its normal hair follicle cells, destroying them in the process. Some patients can experience oval-shaped shedding in all areas of body hair, including eyebrows, head hair, and beards.
Although genetic predisposition, neurological factors, infections, and stress may trigger the disease, the underlying factor has not yet been fully elucidated. Contrary to common knowledge, there is little scientific evidence about the cause of this disorder. Cases of extreme stress can trigger the condition, but most recent research indicates a genetic cause.
With the examination of the hair and scalp, you can learn the cause of hair loss. With the hair-pull test, the hair follicle and the stage of the hair loss can be determined. Also, a scalp biopsy can be helpful for the diagnosis of the problems.
Causes of Alopecia Areata
The reason why our immune system attacks the hair follicles and what initiates this are still a mystery. However, scientists suspect that stress may be a cause of this disease. Also, mineral and vitamin deficiencies can also be reasons for hair loss.
Alopecia areata disease usually occurs in severely stressful situations. Stress causes the secretion of various hormones in our body, causing the internal balance to deteriorate, and as a result, many diseases emerge. These diseases can also cause shedding of hair.
Symptoms of Alopecia Areata Disease
The most prominent symptom of this disorder is irregular hair loss. Coin-sized hair stains begin to fall, especially from the scalp. Any region, including beard and eyelashes, can be affected.
Before the hair loss, there may be itching or burning in the area. If the follicles do not disappear, and the inflammation of the follicles decreases, the hair can grow again. People with a few patches of hair patch usually show full recovery without any treatment.
Alopecia Areata Treatment
Today, the main aim of medical treatments is reducing or stopping the inflammatory attack of our immune system and protecting the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. There is no certain treatment for alopecia areata, although there are some forms of treatment that doctors may recommend to help regrow hair faster.
One of the most preferred forms of alopecia areata treatment is the use of corticosteroids, which are potent anti-inflammatory drugs that can suppress the immune system. They are usually administered by local injections, topical ointment, or orally.
Hair transplant is a permanent solution for every type of hair loss, including alopecia areata. Therefore, you can have a hair transplant to get your healthy hair back. Contact us to get more information about hair transplant procedures. At Gold City Hair, we offer impressive results with our experienced staff.