If you’re experiencing unpredictable hair loss, you’re not alone. It’s most likely alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that affects millions of Americans. In most instances, it causes bald patches that are around the size of a quarter. In rare cases, alopecia totalis results in a completely bald scalp, while alopecia Universalis causes complete hair loss on the entire body.
Signs and Symptoms of Alopecia
Although it affects people of all ages and genders, most cases appear in patients under 30 years. Patchy hair loss is the most visible symptom of alopecia. It occurs on the scalp most times, but you might also experience it on your beard, face, eyelashes, and other hairy body parts.
Some people first discover clumps of hair while showering or on their pillows. Another person might also inform you of the condition if alopecia affects the back of your head. Although all genders experience it, men suffer more significant hair loss. Your family history is also more likely to have relatives with the condition.
Alopecia has varying manifestations in different people. This unpredictability might cause periods of hair loss for most of your life, but some experience it only once. A similar situation occurs with recovery. Some patients experience hair regrowth, while others undergo additional loss.
Rough, dull, thin, or split fingernails and toenails are another common sign of alopecia. They could also have dents, white lines, and spots. Other clinical symptoms include white and exclamation mark hairs in or around the affected patches.
How to Diagnose Alopecia
Dr. Joseph Williams can diagnose alopecia through the following methods:
- Visually observing the extent of hair loss and analyzing some hair samples through a microscope. He might also recommend a scalp biopsy to eliminate other likely causes, such as fungal infections.
- If we suspect other autoimmune conditions, we’ll perform a blood test to identify the relevant antibodies. These tests can also help us understand your thyroid hormones, iron levels, testosterone quantity, and follicle stimulation rate.
The more distinctive the features are, the faster and easier it becomes to make a straightforward diagnosis.
Causes of Alopecia and How to Prevent It
Alopecia occurs when your immune system attacks your hair follicle cells, resulting in shrinkage and reduced hair production. While it’s unclear why the white blood cells target your hair, scientists have found some genetic links. You’re more likely to develop the condition if a family member has also had it.
Research also links alopecia to other autoimmune conditions. An example is an atopy, which might cause thyroiditis, hyperallergic reactions, and vitiligo. Although extreme stress is a possible trigger, genetics is a more plausible explanation.
You can’t prevent alopecia because its exact cause is unknown. However, you can take some measures to reduce the unwanted autoimmune responses that trigger hair loss. One of them involves following a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet. That means avoiding alcohol, sugar-rich food, and processed snacks.
Healthy alternatives include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. In addition to reducing inflammation, this balanced diet is beneficial to your overall health.
While you can’t prevent alopecia, Dr. Joseph Williams can help you cope in various ways. Treatment options depend on the type of autoimmune condition you have. For milder forms, it’s possible to disrupt autoimmune attacks and stimulate hair follicles.
There are also injectable and oral medications available. It’s more effective to recommend a solution after conducting a thorough exam and assessing the risks and benefits of each.
Comprehensive Hair Loss Treatment
At the Advanced Medical Hair Institute, we pride ourselves on maintaining the highest standards of hair treatment. Our lead surgeon, Dr. Joseph Williams, utilizes his exceptional skills and wealth of experience towards achieving this objective. In addition, our investment in innovative hair care technology keeps us a step ahead of the competition.
Apart from being compassionate, honest, and responsive, our highly qualified staff provides customized solutions to the most challenging hair loss problems. Please schedule a consultation today for more information.
