If you experience hair loss, it is possible that you have a condition called alopecia. This type of hair loss can be long term or it can go away on its own. Nearly 147 million people in the world will experience it during their lifetime.

What is Alopecia?

It is a medical condition that causes your hair to fall out in small patches. A single bald patch could be difficult for others to notice. However, having several patches next to each other can create a larger amount of hair loss that is noticeable.

Symptoms of Alopecia

The most obvious symptom of alopecia is hair loss from your head. However, you may lose hair on other parts of your body or experience changes in your nails. Hair loss may include:

• Eyebrows
• Eyelashes
• Facial hair
• Body hair

Causes of Alopecia

It is actually an autoimmune condition where your immune system attacks hair follicles. As the hair follicles shrink, hair production is stopped. This causes hair loss.

The exact cause is unknown. However, certain autoimmune conditions are associated with it. These conditions include:

• Thyroid disease
• Type 1 diabetes
• Lupus
• Ulcerative colitis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Vitiligo

Some researchers note that genetics and environmental factors can impact who suffers from alopecia. Since other medical conditions can cause hair loss, your doctor may decide to rule out other conditions first. Only your doctor can provide a definitive diagnosis.

How to Manage Symptoms of Alopecia

At the time of this writing, there is not a cure for alopecia. Those diagnosed with the condition can ask their doctor about ways to reduce the rate of hair loss or to help hair grow back. Sometimes working with a dermatologist who specializes in managing the condition can help, as they will have specialized training and expertise.

Cold temperatures could contribute to the rate of hair loss from alopecia. Keeping your head, ears, and body warm during the winter months could help. If you experience hair loss on your eyebrows or eye lashes, there are cosmetics that can help to cover up the appearance of hair loss, such as false eyelashes and makeup.

Alopecia is a relatively common condition that causes hair loss. Many people have experienced some form of hair loss in their lifetime. In many cases, the hair loss is only temporary. If you’re experiencing hair loss, New-U can help restore your hair. To schedule a free consultation call us at +1 (585) 272 7320 or to contact us for a FREE consultation.