Steroid Treatments for Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes hair to fall out in patches about the size of a nickel. Any hair bearing area can be affected, but the condition is more noticeable on the head. For some unknown reason the immune system attacks the hair root and causes hair loss. This condition is often treated with corticosteroids due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Epidemiology

• Alopecia areata affects about 0.2 percent of the population. It affects both males and females, but is far more prevalent in females. It can happen at any age, but is more likely to occur in the late teens and early adulthood. It occurs in otherwise healthy individuals with no history of the disease.

Treatment

• Corticosteroids are often injected just under the skin in and around the affected areas. Oral corticosteroids are not often used, because they are only effective while they are being taken, and the prolonged used of oral corticosteroids presents side effects that can be more detrimental than the alopecia areata. With most individuals, hair regrowth will start about one month after corticosteroid treatment. Keep in mind that some individuals will never experience any hair regrowth in the involved areas. Corticosteroids are believed to reduce the inflammation associated with the autoimmune condition that causes alopecia areata.

Side Effects of Corticosteroids

• Corticosteroids side effects include altered response to physical stress, which could cause your blood pressure to drop during times of physical stress. Steroid withdrawal syndrome could occur after abrupt discontinuation of corticosteroids and could cause fatigue, muscle soreness, joint pain or fever. Infection can occur with long-term steroid use because it suppresses the immune system. Osteoporosis, or thinning of the bone, can also occur with long-term steroid use.

Other Possible Side Effects

• Other possible side effects include weight gain, which is caused by the steroids affecting the way your body metabolized and stores fat. Other side effects could include insomnia, mood changes, irritability, fluid retention and high blood pressure.

Prevention/Solution

• Preventing the occurrence of side effects requires taking your corticosteroids precisely as prescribed. Do not skip a dose and do not take an extra dose to make up for one you may have missed. Have a yearly flu shot and avoid crowds during flu season if you are taking corticosteroids. Drink plenty of fluids while you are taking corticosteroids, and watch your intake of sodium to prevent fluid retention. If you experience any sort of side effect, contact your physician for information on how to treat it.