Patchy Hair Loss / Alopecia Areata

What is it?

Alopecia Areata is the medical condition where the patient suffers from sudden hair loss that starts with one or more circular bald patches that may overlap. This patchy hair loss usually occurs when the immune system attacks the hair follicles, which might be brought on by severe stress.
The patient might lose hair from the scalp and in some cases, the eyebrows, eyelashes, and face, as well as other parts of the body suddenly. Alopecia Areata can also develop slowly and might recur after years between occurrences.
This condition can result in total hair loss and can prevent the hair from growing back. However, if the hair does grow back, it is possible for the hair to fall out again. There’s currently no cure for alopecia areata.

Symptoms

• Alopecia Totalis: loss of all the hair present on the scalp
• Alopecia Universalis: loss of all the hair present on the entire body

Treatment

The doctors usually recommend the following treatment options to help hair re-grow more quickly.

• Topical Agents, that include
  • Minoxidil (Rogaine)
  • Anthralin (Dritho-Scalp)
  • Corticosteroid creams
  • Topical immunotherapy
• Steroid Injections
• Oral treatments
• Light therapy/photochemotherapy
• Alternative therapies, that include
  
  • Aromatherapy
  • Acupuncture
  • Microneedling
  • Probiotics
  • Low-Level Laser Therapy
  • Aloe Vera Drinks And Topical Gels
  • Onion Juice Rubbed Onto The Scalp
  • Essential Oils Like Tea Tree, Rosemary, Etc
  • Herbal Supplements

Authored By: Dr. Priya J Talageri