Alopecia refers to various hair loss conditions that can affect both men and women, leading to partial or complete hair loss. The most common form is alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing round patches of hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia, often known as male or female pattern baldness, is a hereditary condition that leads to gradual thinning and loss of hair, usually starting at the crown or temples. Other forms of hair loss, such as telogen effluvium, occur due to stress, illness, or hormonal changes, leading to temporary shedding of hair. Traction alopecia is caused by hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair, like braids or ponytails. Though some forms of alopecia can be temporary, others may result in permanent hair loss, but treatments such as medications, therapies, or hair transplant surgeries can help manage the condition.
Book OnlineFAQs About Alopecia / Hair Loss Conditions
What is alopecia?
Alopecia refers to hair loss that can occur in patches or gradually across the scalp and other areas of the body. It can be caused by various factors, including autoimmune disorders, genetics, stress, and certain medical conditions.
What causes alopecia areata?
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks healthy hair follicles, leading to round patches of hair loss on the scalp or other parts of the body. The exact cause is not fully understood but is thought to be triggered by genetic and environmental factors.
What is androgenetic alopecia?
Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is a hereditary condition that causes gradual thinning and loss of hair, typically starting at the temples, crown, or the hairline.
Can stress cause hair loss?
Yes, stress can lead to telogen effluvium, a temporary form of hair loss that occurs when significant emotional or physical stress forces more hairs than usual into the shedding phase.
Is traction alopecia reversible?
Traction alopecia occurs due to tight hairstyles that pull on the hair, causing damage to hair follicles. If caught early and the hairstyle is changed, hair loss can be reversed. However, prolonged tension may lead to permanent hair loss.
How is alopecia treated?
Treatment options depend on the type of alopecia and may include topical treatments like minoxidil, oral medications, corticosteroid injections, or in some cases, hair transplant surgery. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended to determine the best treatment plan.
Can alopecia be prevented?
While alopecia caused by genetics or autoimmune conditions can’t always be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, reducing stress, and avoiding hairstyles that cause tension can help reduce the risk of some types of hair loss.
When should I see a doctor about hair loss?
If you experience sudden or patchy hair loss, or if hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms like redness, inflammation, or pain, it’s important to see a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment options.