Alopecia: Hair Loss, Causes, Treatment & Therapy

Alopecia is a condition very often behind hair loss in otherwise healthy people, affecting their self-confidence & lives.

Alopecia

Healthy, abundant, and aesthetically pleasing hair, a symbol of beauty and strength since ancient times, continues to be an undeniable element of aesthetic appeal in the modern image of women and men. The anxiety caused by hair loss now leads millions of people worldwide to a dermatologist's office. Alopecia is a condition very often behind hair loss in otherwise healthy people, affecting their self-confidence and quality of life.

Normal Hair Loss Hair loss is primarily a normal process. It is considered normal to lose 50 to 100 hairs per day, a fact that usually goes unnoticed, as some hairs fall out and others grow. When this balance is disturbed, hair loss becomes noticeable, and it is advisable to have it investigated by a specialist doctor, the dermatologist.

What is Alopecia? Alopecia refers to hair loss on the head, as well as on other parts of the body such as eyebrows, eyelashes, torso, and limbs. It can be temporary or permanent, such as what is commonly known as male pattern baldness, affecting only the scalp or the entire body, ranging from mild thinning to total hair loss. The progression of alopecia is unpredictable. Many patients, however, see their hair grow back without any treatment. Hair loss is usually not alarming and does not indicate a life-threatening condition. However, early diagnosis by a specialist doctor is necessary even before the simplest treatment.

Alopecia & Various Types Depending on its clinical presentation, alopecia is classified into the following types: Androgenetic Alopecia Although its name refers to men, it affects both sexes. In women, it appears on the crown of the head, while men gradually lose hair from their forehead, temples, and the crown of the head. Alopecia Areata This is an autoimmune condition (the immune system attacks its own hair follicles). It involves sudden, patchy hair loss on the head or body. It has a hereditary predisposition and affects both sexes, even children under 10 years old. Its course varies from person to person. Diffuse Alopecia Characterized by gradual hair thinning and reduction in hair density. Factors responsible for diffuse alopecia are associated with intense physical or psychological stress, such as pregnancy, medication intake (e.g., contraceptives), and it is usually temporary. Cicatricial Alopecia Refers to permanent hair loss resulting from a condition that destroyed the hair follicle and caused scarring.

Alopecia & Causes The list of causes of alopecia is extensive. It starts with heredity and genetic factors, continues with hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome, certain medications or supplements, chemotherapy, and extends to anxiety and stressful situations. Furthermore, a scalp infection can cause small inflammatory areas and hair loss. It is also common for hair loss to be observed a few months after pregnancy or after an illness, which is temporary. Hair loss can also be caused by a lack of specific vitamins and elements in the diet, such as iron, biotin, and zinc.

Reasons to Consult a Doctor Early diagnosis and timely treatment are very important for managing alopecia. Therefore, a visit to the doctor is necessary when one notices: Sudden hair loss. Unusually large amounts of hair on the brush, pillow, or in the bathtub. Receding hairline. Patches due to hair loss.

Alopecia & Diagnosis A specialist doctor can determine the cause of hair loss after a clinical examination and detailed medical history, and may also request blood tests or more specialized examinations, such as a trichogram, trichoscopy, and sometimes a skin biopsy. Modern technology now provides possibilities such as Fargon's genetic TrichoTest, which individualizes the treatment for each case by analyzing 48 genetic variations in the 13 genes found to be associated with hair loss. The TrichoTest is performed once and is completely painless for the patient. The diagnostic value of TrichoTest is crucial in selecting the appropriate treatment for each case, saving time and cost. Read also... Dermatological Examination

Alopecia Treatment A dermatologist's diagnosis is crucial for effective hair loss treatment, as it is necessary to rule out other potential diseases or, if present, to treat them, and to identify the type of alopecia the patient is suffering from. Depending on the case, the doctor may recommend topical treatment or oral medication, as well as interventional therapies, such as autologous PRP mesotherapy. Autologous mesotherapy is considered one of the most modern and effective treatments for alopecia, naturally after the doctor's recommendation, as it is addressed to specific categories of patients. Finally, it is important to know that even in the case of alopecia, there isn't one treatment that works for everyone.

Bibliography Hellenic Dermatological and Venereological Society https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hair-loss/ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12423-alopecia-areata

What type of alopecia do I have?

Your dermatologist will diagnose the type of alopecia you have. Clinical examination is important, and often laboratory tests, and sometimes a skin biopsy, are also necessary.

Is alopecia contagious?

No, alopecia is not contagious.

I notice bald spots in my hair. Could I have cancer?

No, the gaps in your hair and alopecia areata are not a sign of cancer.

Does stress affect the manifestation of alopecia?

It has not been proven by extensive research, but many men and women with alopecia areata have recently experienced stressful situations in their lives, such as work issues, family matters, grief, surgeries, etc.

Can medications or daily habits contribute to the persistent hair loss I am experiencing?

Your dermatologist will provide you with the answer. On the day of your appointment, be sure to inform them about any medications or vitamins you are taking, products you use on your hair, recent dietary changes, and whether you are experiencing pressure or stressful situations in your daily life.