Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss on the scalp and other areas of the body. It is estimated to affect around 2% of the global population and can occur at any age, although it is most common in people under the age of 30. There are many reasons that are responsible for alopecia. Treatment for alopecia areata can help one overcome this autoimmune disorder and combat the issue of extensive hair loss.
Causes of Alopecia Areata
The immune system of our body protects it from viruses, bacteria, etc. However, in alopecia, the immune system starts to attack the hair follicles, leading to abnormal hair loss. In alopecia areata, you will find hair loss in certain areas, leading to patchy baldness. The causes of alopecia areata can vary depending on the hormones, diet, and medical history of an individual. While planning the Alopecia Areata treatment, the medical professional will closely analyse the causes and study the baldness pattern to suggest the most suitable treatment plan.
Some common causes of Alopecia Areata include:
- Iron deficiency
- Physical stress or drastic weight loss
- Thyroid level imbalance
- Pregnancy
- Chronic illness
- Extensive intake of vitamin A
- Fungal infection
- Hormonal imbalance
- Protein deficiency
- Mental stress and anxiety
- Extensive hair loss leading to scalp patches
- Hair loss in the beard, moustache, and eyelashes appears in distinct regions.
- Sudden Hairloss
- Bald patches arise spontaneously.
- Hair loss across the body Can also happen
Various types of alopecia areata
The types of alopecia areata include:
- Alopecia areata: This is the most common type of alopecia areata, characterized by round patches of hair loss on the scalp.
- Alopecia totalis: This is a more severe form of alopecia areata that causes complete hair loss on the scalp.
- Alopecia Universalis: This is the most severe form of alopecia areata, causing complete hair loss on the scalp and body.
- Ophiasis: This type of alopecia areata causes hair loss in a band-like pattern along the sides and back of the scalp.
- Diffuse alopecia areata: This type of alopecia areata causes thinning of the hair over a large area of the scalp.
- Scarring alopecia: This type of alopecia areata causes scarring of the scalp, which can lead to permanent hair loss.
- Alopecia areata incognita: This is a type of alopecia areata that does not fit into any of the above categories and may have unusual features.
Treatment for Alopecia Areata
The treatment for Alopecia Areata primarily depends upon the cause and symptoms. The doctors may suggest some steroid injections to stimulate hair growth. Some medicine may also be prescribed to overcome the autoimmune disorder. PRP treatment for alopecia areata is one of the most widely used and proven therapies that can naturally activate platelets and encourage natural hair growth. Growth factor injections can also help cases of recurrent and persistent Alopecia Aereata. However, it is imperative to do extensive research and associate with a professional clinic for expert treatment for alopecia areata. A specialized clinic can help you to combat the baldness problem and naturally regrow the hair.