ABOUT THE DISEASE
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that results in the loss of hair. In this condition the body`s immune system attacks one`s own body, in this case, the hair follicle which is responsible for hair growth. This hair loss can occur on the scalp and other parts of the body. It usually starts as one or more small, round, smooth patches of hair loss. On rare occasions, the person loses all of the hair on his or her head (alopecia totalis) or entire body (alopecia universalis). It can affect both males and females, usually starts before age 30.
SYMPTOMS
- • Patches where hair has fallen out are smooth and round in shape
- • Burning sensation or Itching
CAUSES
Anyone can develop alopecia, due to some external triggers or hereditary factors - therefore the chances of having alopecia areata are slightly greater if you have a relative with the disease or any family members with autoimmune disorders such as diabetes, lupus, or thyroid disease.
DIAGNOSIS
Some blood tests might be prescribed to check for autoimmune disorders.
TREATMENT METHODS
No matter how widespread the hair loss, the hair follicles remain alive and are ready to resume normal hair production whenever they receive the right signal. Hair re-growth may occur without treatment and can even restart after years of hair loss.
There is no cure for this disease however some possible treatments help trigger hair regrowth. These treatment options include use of medicines such as cortisone injections and certain creams and ointments
Some other options could be the use of wigs.
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