Alopecia Areata:

Causes, Symptoms, Hair Replacement Options

Alopecia Areata is a recurring patchy type of hair loss. It can occur at any age and affects 1% of the population, most commonly children. The reasons for its development are not fully understood. Although not life threatening, the hair loss can be psychologically traumatic.

Most scientists believe Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disease where white blood cells from the immune system mistakenly attack hair follicles and keep them from producing hairs.

Alopecia Areata is unpredictable, and repeated episodes are not unusual. Some cases last many years with some regrowth in one area, while at the same time new areas appearing. AA may also cycle through expression and remission. When hair does start to regrow, it tends to be of very fine "peach fuzz" hair, eventually regaining most or all of its normal color and texture.

The true causes of Alopecia Areata are unknown. Except for a family history, there are no known risk factors for the condition. While some researchers have considered stress as a factor in the development of the disease, the exact role of stressful events remains unclear. The general consensus among published articles on the subject suggest that stress most likely triggers a condition already present in susceptible individuals, rather than acting as the true primary cause.

There is neither a cure for the disease nor drugs approved for its treatment. In general, treatments are much less effective for extensive alopecia areata (particularly alopecia totalis/alopecia universalis).

Who is Most Likely to Get This Form of Alopecia?

The National Alopecia Areata Foundation reports that disease affects an estimated four million Americans, both men and women, of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. It often begins in childhood.

If you have a close family member with the disease, your risk of developing it is slightly increased. If your family member lost his or her first patch of hair before age 30, the risk to other family members is greater.

Will My Hair Ever Grow Back?

There is every chance that your hair will regrow, but it may also fall out again. No one can predict when it might regrow or fall out. The course of the disease varies from person to person. For some individuals, the initial hair regrowth is white, with a gradual return of the original hair color. In most, the regrown hair is ultimately the same color and texture as the original hair.

What Can I Expect Next?

The course of the disease is highly unpredictable, and the uncertainty of what will happen next is probably the most difficult and frustrating aspect of the disease. You may continue to lose hair, or your hair loss may stop. The hair you have lost may or may not grow back, and you may or may not continue to develop new bare patches.

How Can I Cope With the Effects of Alopecia Areata?

This is a common question, particularly for children, teens, and young adults. Living with hair loss can be hard, especially in a culture that views hair as a sign of youth and good health. Even so, most people with this form of alopecia are well-adjusted, contented people living full lives. The emotional aspects of living with hair loss, however, can be challenging.

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