At a certain age, many people notice hair loss in many ways. Some notice empty hair patches, others might observe hair thinning or an increased number of hair on their hairbrush. These symptoms might be disturbing for many people as losing hair is not something exciting.
This hair fall is referred to as alopecia. There are different types of alopecia and ways to reverse them.
So, alopecia areata is a hair condition that causes hair fall in patches that might be undetectable initially, but after some time they become visible when the patches advance.
Let’s delve into various types of alopecia and their treatments.
Types of Alopecia
These are the reversible types of alopecia.
- Androgenetic alopecia
- Telogen Effluvium
- Traction Alopecia
These are the irreversible types of alopecia.
- Lichen planopilaris
- Lupus
- Central Centrifugal CicatricialAlopecia
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Why is alopecia areata caused?
Alopecia is caused due to the infection in hair follicles. The reason for the infection is unknown but the possibility is that the immune system strikes the hair follicles. Alopecia is also caused due to genetic reasons. Studies have shown that 20% of the cases are hereditary and have a family history. Moreover, as a result of some conditions like vitiligo, thyroid and diabetes alopecia can commence. So you must always consult your doctor so that he observes and let you know the exact cause of your hair loss or alopecia.
What is the best treatment for alopecia?
The right and best treatment for alopecia can only be determined once the cause of the condition is known. For instance, if the hair fall is due to stress may take 6-9 months to regrow. However, if some other health conditions like high thyroid or low iron levels your hair will grow after discussing and curing this condition.
Then we have over-the-counter pills for hair fall. For female pattern baldness, Minoxidil is considered useful. For male pattern baldness Finasteride is beneficial. When paired with Minoxidil, Finasteride works more effectively.
Anthralin cream is also used to cure alopecia. It is applied to the bald patches and washed after some time. The patients notice visible results after 3 months however; the cure must be continued up to 6-9 for the desired outcome.
In the case of permanent alopecia, cortisone injections are used to reduce the inflammation around the hair follicles. These are also said to reduce hair loss and improve hair regrowth in some cases. These are available in several forms like ointment, cream, foam, lotion, etc.
Are there any regrowth signs once I start the treatment?
Alopecia areata is not completely cured. Mostly this condition remains for a lifetime. But once the treatment begins, if it is effective you might notice alopecia areata regrowth signs. Regrowth of hair commences from the middle of the bald patch. You might notice grey hair that eventually thickens and gets darker.
Every hair loss case is different. Sometimes hair regrowth commences without any cure when the hair loss is minor. If your hair loss is moderate you might have to get a treatment consultation from your doctor. You might notice hair regrowth within a few weeks.
There are around 75-80% regrowth chances if you have scalp half affected or lesser. But if you have faced hair loss on large scale there are no or a few chances of hair regrowth.
Ending Note:
Hair loss or Alopecia is a condition that does not affect you physically. It might disturb you mentally but learn to embrace yourself no matter what. However, when you commence the treatment for hair loss, check for the side effects and if you are allergic to any drugs let your hair specialist doctor in Karachi know. This is because he can advise you on the right treatment for your condition.
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