Alopecia Areatain in Men
Alopecia areata is a condition which affects many men across the globe. It is a type of hair loss which causes patches of baldness.
Alopecia areata is a condition which affects many men across the globe. It is a type of hair loss which causes patches of baldness. In most cases the hair grows back after several months. In some cases, treatments can be done to help with the hair growth.
What Is Alopecia Areata?
The word Alopecia means loss of hair andthe word areata means occurring in patches. It is a common autoimmune disorder which results in hair loss. The immune system mistakenly starts attacking the hair follicle resulting in hair loss. It is very common in men of the age group 20 years and above, however, it can affect older people as well. In this condition, clumps of hair keep falling out. It usually grows back in months, but there are chances that it may fall out from another area of the body. The new hair that grows back is usually of the same texture as the rest, however, at times it may be of different texture or color.
What Causes Alopecia Areata?
It happens when white blood cells start attacking the hair follicles. It causes them to shrink and makes the hair weak, due to which the hair falls out and hair production takes time. Doctors have noticed that genetics are also involved in many cases of alopecia areata. People with a family history of this condition are more likely to suffer from this condition. It is also noted that the hair follicles are not destroyed and over the time after the reaction goes away and things return to normal, hair can grow in them.
What Are The Symptoms Of Alopecia Areata?
The typical pattern of baldness appears on the scalp. It can also affect the beard, fingernails, toenails and eyelashes. Some of the early developments of this condition can affect the nails and you can observe the following symptoms:
- Thin nails
- Dents can appear
- Rough nails
- White spots and lines
Regrowth of white hair in the affected areas can also point to this condition.
How is Alopecia Areata diagnosed?
Usually no test is required as the doctor can diagnose from the appearance of the bald patches. However, in case of any doubts the doctor can request for a blood test or a skin scrapings from an affected area to rule out any other causes. Askin biopsy can also be done. Symptoms of alopecia areata are quite distinctive hence easy to diagnose.
What Is The Treatment Of Alopecia Areata?
As of now there is no cure for alopecia areata, but certain treatments can help with hair growth. In some cases, corticosteroids can be prescribed which can suppress the immune system. Minoxidil, Anthralin can also be prescribed to help with the hair growth and the immune system. Photochemotherapy has also shown positive signsfor patients with this condition.
What Are The Consequences Of Alopecia Areata?
This condition does not make the people sick, however, it is emotionally very challenging to accept. For most men this disease is traumatic and psychological in nature. It can lead people to hate themselves and shy away from the society and feel sad and embarrassed about themselves.