Alopecia Areata
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Information At A Glance
Alopecia
areata results in generally round bald patches on the scalp.
Diffuse alopecia
areata can result in thinning hair without bald patches.
Alopecia areata
may not just be confined to the scalp however.
Other body
hair, such as eyebrows, eyelashes, hair on the arms and legs
and a man's facial hair may also be affected.
Much has yet to be learned about the causes of alopecia
areata but it does seem that stress aggravates the condition and
it may be brought on by sudden shock.
Thyroid malfunction can also be linked to it as
well as hereditary factors.
The hair follicles remain but they are not able
to produce hair. Healthy hair breaks off just above the surface
of the skin and the small stumps that remain then fall out. Many
refer to these hairs as exclamation point hairs due to their appearance
when viewed under a magnifiying glass.
In some cases hair regrows in the bald patches.
There are a variety of treatments available
for alopecia areata although results are mixed.
Keratin.com has comprehensive information
on these methods.
For fast
access use these links:
Overview of therapies
divided into groups
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Minoxidil - Directly
on the hair follice
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Use of irritants
and chemicals to stimulate the immune system
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Topical corticosteroids
for alopecia areata
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An excellent resource if you wish to educate yourself
about alopecia areata is:
"Alopecia Areata: Understanding and Coping
With Hair Loss"
by Wendy Thompson.
Chapters cover:
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Understanding Alopecia Areata
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Coping With Hair Loss
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Diagnosis, Treatment and the Latest Research
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Hairpieces and Headcovers
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Special Considerations for Children
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A Day In The Life Of A Person With Alopecia Areata
Click here to order your personal copy:
Alopecia
Areata Information Page - Return to Top
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