Alopecia Areata is a condition of unpredictable hair loss in small patches from the scalp or other parts of the body. It is an autoimmune condition wherein the immune system of the body attacks the body itself. In the case of Alopecia Areata, the immune system attacks hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. The condition affects people of both genders and all ages, although it is most common in those under 30 years of age. Alopecia Areata may result in hair loss in small patches and eventually complete hair loss on the scalp in a condition called Alopecia Areata Totalis, or hair loss on the entire body, called Alopecia Areata Universalis. Around 10% of people affected by this condition eventually reach Alopecia Areata Totalis or Alopecia Areata Universalis. Let us understand more about this condition in this article.
Causes of Alopecia Areata
There is no definitive cause of Alopecia Areata, but the condition causes white blood cells in the human body to attack hair follicles cells, causing rapid hair loss. It may be caused by genetical disorders or stress, although there is no direct relation. Any personal history of autoimmune disorders, hyperallergic tendencies and vitiligo may increase the chances of Alopecia Areata. The condition may occur suddenly and show dramatic effects within a few days of its onset. It is advisable to see a Dermatologist in Gurgaon or Delhi as soon as one notices an unusual amount of hair fall.
Symptoms of Alopecia Areata
Aside from an unusual increase in hair loss in coin-sized chunks, scalp irritation and burning is experienced as symptoms of the condition. For some patients, there may be grey hair surfacing in areas affected by hair loss. Alopecia areata also affects toenails and fingernails which lose their sheen, become rough and thin with visible white spots, lines and pinpoint dents.
Read More: Preparing Yourself for a Dermatologist Visit in Gurgaon
Diagnosis & Treatment of Alopecia Areata
Rapid hair loss should trigger an alert to see a hair specialist at the earliest and get a proper diagnosis of the problem. Doctors diagnose alopecia areata by examining the problem area under a microscope and even conduct a skin biopsy. A blood test can help rule out other autoimmune disorders.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for alopecia areata. Medications available for other autoimmune disorders may be tried on patients suffering from alopecia areata. A hair specialist in Delhi or Gurgaon may recommend the following procedures to treat the condition and try for hair regrowth:
- Minoxidil: This scalp treatment is ideal for pattern baldness but can be used to treat alopecia areata. It has a 12 week observation period, but many patients may see little or no results.
- Topical Immunotherapy: Chemicals are applied on the scalp to cause an allergic reaction and trigger hair regrowth. This can also cause skin irritation and itchiness.
- Corticosteroids: Anti-inflammatory drugs are injected into the scalp, consumed as a pill or rubbed on the scalp to help regrowth of hair. This treatment has a long gestation period.
Patients may also experience hair loss and regrowth as a continuous and recurring cycle of alopecia areata. Many patients of alopecia areata may choose to undergo cosmetic surgery in Delhi and other places for hair transplant or hair replacement to avoid the emotional trauma that accompanies early balding.
Wrap Up
It is advisable to seek medical attention from a dermatologist in Delhi or Gurgaon at the earliest in case of sudden balding. Prompt diagnosis of alopecia areata may help adopt preventive medication and treat baldness immediately. If you are looking to consult a Dermatologist in Gurgaon regarding symptoms of alopecia areata, find a trusted specialist near you with Meddo. Call us at 8752005200 or email us at contact@meddo.in.
