Is your hair falling out too? Let's talk about Alopecia Areata!

Have you ever noticed that you lose a lot of hair when you shower or comb your hair? You may have been startled to see a sudden patch of hair loss on your scalp, the size of a coin. This can be really annoying. But don't worry, this is what we're talking about today. It's called Alopecia Areata.

What is Alopecia Areata?

Simply put, alopecia areata is a condition where your body's immune system mistakenly attacks your own hair follicles. This is what we call an autoimmune disease . Our immune system's job is to fight germs like viruses and bacteria that enter the body. But in this condition, the immune system mistakes our hair follicles as an enemy and attacks them. This is why hair starts falling out.

This condition can occur not only on the head, but also anywhere on the body, for example, on the beard, eyebrows, eyelashes. "Alopecia" is the medical term used to describe hair loss or baldness. "Areata" means that it occurs in small, patchy areas.

Are there different types of this?

Yes, there are several types of this depending on the amount and location of hair loss.

Who is more likely to develop this condition?

Alopecia areata can affect anyone, but some people are at a higher risk of developing it.

• Family history: If someone in your family has alopecia areata, you have a small chance of developing it too.
• Other autoimmune diseases: Your risk is higher if you or your family has other autoimmune diseases, such as diabetes, lupus, or thyroid disease.
• Age: This condition is most common among young children and young adults.

What are the symptoms of this?

The main and most common symptom is the hair loss in circles we talked about earlier. These areas are usually smooth and do not hurt or itch. However, sometimes other symptoms can be seen.

• Nail changes: Small pitting may occur in the nails. The nails may become rough and feel like sandpaper.
• Itching: Very rarely, you may feel a slight itching or burning sensation in the hair follicles.
• "Exclamation point hairs": You can see small hairs that look like an exclamation point at the edges of the hairline, becoming thicker at the top and thinner as you approach the skin.
• White hair: Sometimes when hair grows back, it may first turn white. It then returns to its normal color.

Although this condition may not cause much physical pain, it can be very stressful mentally. Along with the change in appearance caused by hair loss, some people have to deal with conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression . Therefore, it is important to understand that this is something that affects the body as well as the mind.

How does a doctor recognize this?

A doctor can usually tell if you have alopecia areata by examining your scalp and hairline. The doctor will ask you the following questions:

• When did your hair start falling out?
• Does anyone in the family have a situation like this?
• Do you have any other illnesses?
• Is there a difference in your nails?

Sometimes, several other tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis.

• Scalp biopsy: A very small piece of skin is taken and examined to confirm a skin disease.
• Blood tests: A blood test can be done to check for thyroid problems or other autoimmune diseases.

What are the treatments for this?

There is no cure for alopecia areata. However, there are many effective treatments that can help hair grow back and control further hair loss . Your doctor will determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

• Corticosteroids: These are anti-inflammatory drugs. They can be given as injections directly into the scalp, taken as pills, or applied to the skin as a cream or foam.
• Minoxidil (Rogaine®): This is a liquid applied to the scalp. It helps stimulate hair growth. It can take about 12 weeks to see results.
• Phototherapy: This is a treatment using ultraviolet light emitted from special lamps.
• Topical immunotherapy: This involves applying a chemical to the scalp that causes an allergic reaction. This reaction stimulates hair growth.
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): This involves separating platelets from your own blood and injecting them back into your scalp. This stimulates hair follicles and helps hair grow.

What can I do while living with this condition?

While undergoing treatment, there are several things you can do to make daily life with this condition easier.

• Protect yourself: If you don't have hair on your head, wear a hat or scarf when you go outside. This will protect your scalp from the sun and the cold. If you have lost your eyelashes, wearing sunglasses can protect your eyes from dust.
• A nutritious diet: It is very important to eat a balanced diet. Foods rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein help in hair growth.
• Stress management: Some believe that excessive stress can worsen this condition. Therefore, try to keep your mind calm through things like yoga and meditation.
• Mild shampoos: Use mild shampoos and conditioners that do not contain chemicals that are harmful to the hair.
• Wigs and hairstyles: If you are concerned about visible hair loss, you can use hairstyles that can cover it up, such as wigs or hair weaves.

When should I see a doctor?

It's best to see a doctor as soon as you notice that you're losing hair. Also, after you start treatment, talk to your doctor immediately if you:

• If you develop new symptoms.
• If there is no reduction in hair loss despite treatment.
• If the areas where the hair has gone are red, swollen, and look infected.

Losing your hair can be a huge burden. But remember, alopecia areata is a manageable condition. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, you can cope with it successfully.