What is alopecia areata?
-
Dr. Mehmet Oz answered:Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder, can cause hair loss. In autoimmune disease, the body’s immune system, which normally protects us against germs, goes haywire and starts attacking the body itself. In this case, the hair follicles as if it were an infectious intruder. The hair can fall out in small areas, which is the most common form, or you can lose the hair on your entire head and body, including eyelashes, underarm hair, and pubic hair. There are many treatments for it, so if you are losing patches of hair, it is definitely worth asking your doctor what you can do. Ignoring it does not tend to make it go away.
Find out more about this book: YOU: The Owner's Manual for Teens: A Guide to a Healthy Body and Happy Life
Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder, can cause hair loss. In autoimmune disease, the body’s immune system, which normally protects us against germs, goes haywire and starts attacking the body itself. In this case, the hair... More -
Healthwise answered:Alopecia areata is a type of hair loss that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicle roots, where hair growth begins. It is most common in people younger than 20, but children and adults of any age may be affected.
- Usually clumps of hair fall out, resulting in totally smooth, round hairless patches. In some cases the hair may become thinner without distinct patches of baldness. This may happen several times.
- In rare cases, complete loss of scalp hair and body hair occurs.
- Hair may regrow completely, partially, or not at all. In most people with the condition, the hair regrows within a year.
Medical treatments for alopecia areata may include medications that are either put on the scalp or injected. Because hair often regrows, treatment may not be necessary.
Alopecia areata is a type of hair loss that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicle roots, where hair growth begins. It is most common in people younger than 20, but children and adults of any age may be affected. Usually... More
