Hair fall is a common occurrence, and there is nothing to be scared about it. However, when small areas of balding patches develop, it is time to consult a specialist immediately. Referred to as Alopecia Areata, it is an asymptomatic auto-immune condition that often goes unnoticed.
Alopecia Areata is not specific to any gender or age group. However, studies have shown that the chances of Alopecia Areata are more in case of families. A genetic sequence has been observed in many of the cases studied.
There can be the regeneration of new hair in the balding spot, but there is no guarantee that the hair will remain unless proper treatment is carried out. The condition is not contagious, nor is it a painful one for the sufferer.
Since it has no symptoms or signs, assessing the time of occurrence is often a tough job as most often it is unnoticed unless someone points at it.
- What causes Alopecia Areata?
Just like the symptoms, there is nothing much known about what exactly causes Alopecia. Thorough and extensive studies have produced results showcasing a few causes, but they have been inconclusive as a whole.
A few scientific observations have shown that Alopecia Areata can be caused due to the immune response of the body. The immune system of the body randomly attacks certain parts of the body to eradicate some fictitious germs.
This results in weakening of the hair follicles and thus causes a balding patch in the area. The hypothesis is still under consideration, but it is believed to be the closest conclusion.
- What are the types of Alopecia Areata?
Alopecia Areata is classified medically into three significant types. They are
Alopecia Areata Patchy – appears as Round patches due to continuous hair loss on the scalp is seen in this type of Alopecia.
Alopecia Areata Totalis – In this type of Alopecia Areata, there is the loss of hair entirely from the scalp.
Alopecia Areata Universalis – Regarded as one of the rarest forms of Alopecia, it presents itself in the way of complete loss of hair on the scalp and entire body.
- What can trigger Alopecia Areata?
Though no such triggers have been confirmed yet, it has been noticed that patients suffering from a few ailments seem to be more prone to get affected by Alopecia Areata. This condition includes Vilitigo, Ulcerative colitis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Thyroid Conditions etc.
- What is the treatment for Alopecia Areata?
Steroidal treatment using injection and creams, Photochemocherapy etc. can produce temporary relief, but no such permanent treatment has yet been successfully implemented.
- Is natural treatment possible for Alopecia Areata?
Contrarily to popular belief, many patients have stated that natural treatment has been more effective in battling Alopecia Areata than allopathic medicine. List of Alopecia Areata herbal treatment includes –
Red Ginseng – This Korean underground herb has much potent property that the people vouch for. Naturally, occurring Ginseng is as expensive as gold because of its high potency. Regular usage of Red Ginseng juice on the balding patches has shown regeneration of new hair follicles.
Onion – Onion has sulfur that fights against free radicals. Besides that Onion Juice promotes better circulation on the area applied on. This helps in improving the scalp immunity and skin condition, thus paving the way for hair follicle growth.
Coconut Oil – Rich in multivitamins and minerals, Coconut Oil is one of the most beneficial herbal treatments for Alopecia Areata. It improves the scalp condition and provides extra nutrition to the skin, thus promoting a healthy dermal layer.