Definition of Alopecia Areata

The American Academy of Dermatology states that nearly 2 percent of the population in the United States will suffer from Alopecia Areata at some point in life. This condition causes hair loss on the scalp and/or body. Sometimes the hair loss is complete, and other times it is patchy. While there is no known cure for the condition, there are some possible treatments and ways to cope with the symptoms.
  1. Causes

    • According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF), this condition is considered an autoimmune disease in which heredity plays a part. An autoimmune disease is a disease in which the body attacks itself. As far as heredity goes, NAAF reports that there is a genetic component to the disease, which points to heredity as a cause. However, people who are first stricken with the disease after age 30 are less likely to have a family member with Alopecia Areata than a person who is stricken prior to age 30.

    Types

    • There are three types of Alopecia Areata: Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Areata Universalis and Alopecia Areata Totalis. Alopecia Areata is the most common form of the disease in which hair loss is patchy. Alopecia Areata Universalis is the form of the disease in which all hair on the body and scalp is lost. This is the rarest form of Alopecia Areata. Total hair loss on the scalp is classified as Alopecia Areata Totalis.

    Symptoms

    • Alopecia Areata usually presents itself as hair loss in round, coin-sized patches on the scalp, which is the most common location, or the body. While it is possible that the hair loss is the only symptom of the disease, the American Academy of Dermatology states that some sufferers may experience itching prior to hair loss. Also, in some cases, the nails may appear pitted or distorted.

    Treatments

    • According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), there aren't any drugs approved to treat Alopecia Areata. However, it further states that doctors may prescribe medications to help the hair regrow. These include corticosteroids, immunosuppressants. topical regrowth treatments like Minoxidil, and photochemotherapy.

    Coping

    • Since there isn't a cure for Alopecia Areata, coping with the condition and protecting the bare skin become the priortities. To protect the skin, wearing sunscreen on the bald areas are vital. If eyelashes are missing, glasses can help protect the eyes from dirt. Placing antibiotic ointment in the nostrils protect the sinuses from dust and germs when the nasal hair is gone. Wearing hats or wigs can help the sufferer to blend in with her peers. However, if the condition affects other parts of the body, such as the beard for men or the eyebrows, coping isn't that easy. Using an eyebrown pencil to draw eyebrows or using hair colored powder can help camoflauge hair loss. Some people with Alopecia Areata prefer to simply let their baldness show so others can learn about the condition.

Hair Loss - Related Articles