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Written by Dr. Ringpfeil

Alopecia Areata Treatment

Alopecia Areata - Overview

Alopecia areata is a disorder that affects hair follicles and is reflected in round patches of hair loss. Normally, the immune system functions to protect the body against infection and disease. In alopecia areata, the body's immune system mistakenly recognizes hair follicles as foreign and attacks them. The cause is not known, but the prevailing scientific hypothesis is that genetics plays a significant role in predisposition and a trigger initiates the attack on the hair follicles.

Diagnosis

Alopecia areata often begins in childhood. The risk is significantly increased if you have a close family member afflicted with the disease. Emotional or physical trauma typically precedes hair loss by up to 3 months. Hair falls out in small, round patches leaving a smooth hairless scalp in affected areas. The degree of hair loss varies from one bare patch to considerable balding.

In rare cases, the disease causes a complete loss of hair on the scalp (alopecia totalis) or total body (alopecia Universalis). Rarely, alopecia areata presents as diffuse hair loss, widespread hair loss across the scalp. On occasion, a scalp biopsy may be performed. If additional signs or symptoms are present, blood tests may reveal other autoimmune conditions.

Management

In most instances, the hair regrows spontaneously; however, this process takes several months. When alopecia areata is located on the scalp and cannot easily be hidden by covering hair or clever hairstyles, the psychological impact of alopecia areata can be severe. There is no makeup that imitates hair and a hat may be inappropriate in a school or working environment. A wig can temporarily become necessary.

Treatment and Medication

Alopecia areata is difficult to treat and only a few treatments have been assessed in randomized controlled trials. The most common treatments seem to facilitate faster regrowth of hair rather than treat the underlying problem. Typical therapy includes topical corticosteroids, steroid injection under the skin surface, and ultraviolet light therapy, especially narrowband UVB.

Topical drugs may be applied to hairless areas to stimulate hair growth. Rarely, systemic immunosuppressive treatments are used. Some people with alopecia areata try alternative treatments including acupuncture and Chinese herbs. There is no cure for alopecia areata.

Coping

Many are profoundly upset by their hair loss and some may require psychological support. It might be difficult to cope with relapse following or during initially successful treatment. These considerations are particularly important in children, as the hair loss condition can make them feel less comfortable socializing and making friends. Contact with other sufferers or a patient support group is strongly recommended.

Prevention

When emotional stress is the known trigger, efforts should be made to redirect or avoid these stressors. Some may do well with biofeedback training, mediation, or yoga; others will find their own way of coping with these stressors.

General considerations to keep your hair healthy and minimize the appearance of hair loss include a nutritionally balanced diet; and gentle handling of your hair. Whenever possible, allow your hair to air-dry naturally; avoid tight hairstyles, such as braids, buns, or ponytails; and avoid compulsively twisting, rubbing, or pulling your hair.

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SKIN

# of surveys: 4187
Last updated: 1/02/2024 11:10 AM

PATIENT RATINGS

Would you recommend us?

definitely
93.1%
probably
6.16%
maybe
0.58%
not likely
0.08%
no
0.02%

Compare our service to other similar practices

excellent
87.9%
very good
10.1%
good
1.8%
poor
0.06%
very poor
0%

Overall doctor performance

excellent
94.2%
very good
4.89%
good
0.80%
poor
0.03%
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0%

The doctor listened to you attentively

excellent
93.9%
very good
4.97%
good
1.05%
poor
0.05%
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0%

The doctor took time to answer your questions

excellent
94.0%
very good
4.66%
good
1.27%
poor
0.02%
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0%

The doctor explained treatment options

excellent
94.3%
very good
4.16%
good
1.25%
poor
0.14%
very poor
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The doctor explained treatment options

excellent
92.0%
very good
5.69%
good
2.18%
poor
0.11%
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Front desk performance

excellent
85.6%
very good
10.2%
good
3.66%
poor
0.31%
very poor
0.08%

Aesthetician performance

excellent
88.6%
very good
7.61%
good
3.39%
poor
0.24%
very poor
0.08%

Office comfort

excellent
90.9%
very good
6.93%
good
2.08%
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Parking

excellent
66.4%
very good
14.4%
good
15.7%
poor
2.49%
very poor
0.9%

Friendliness of the staff during appointment

excellent
90.9%
very good
7.23%
good
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What WE DID WELL

(Answers:674)

Mainly speaking with the Dr and being explained everything.

#12024-08-25

Definitely the best overall dermatology practice I've seen (I've seen a lot). Very well run and obviously the Dr. is extremely expert and knowledgeable.

#22011-06-09 11:41:32

the swiftness and kindness of the staff, felt very comfortable

#32024-10-28

I found it very interesting and feel that I came to the right place and trust the doctor's treatment for me.

#42024-12-28

Overall I just appreciated the fact that my variety of issues were addressed, but of course there are always those questions that pop up after the fact. I appreciated the Dr & assistant's attentiveness. I also appreciated that the Dr was very conscience of what meds were pregnancy safe & not.

#52025-02-01

The friendliness of the entire staff

#62024-08-19

Staff professionalism,crisp action,friendly engagement,and a well designed entry area.

#72011-09-21 17:08:06

frendliness of entire staff doc is terrific

#82024-06-09

EVERYONE WAS VERY NICE AND FRIENDLY AND I ESPECIALLY LIKED EVRYONES SMILE!

#92010-12-14 11:35:36

Beautiful offfice. Doctor was thorough but quick, which was great

#102011-04-04 11:16:27

What can we do better?

(answers:373)

everything was fine

#12011-02-24 15:01:34

Impossible! Best medical office experience possible.

#22011-10-17 16:27:23

I have no suggestions. I am very pleased with ever aspect of my care

#32010-10-18 16:25:51

I couldn't find any parking.

#42024-11-26

I wish the aesthetician was available earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to accomodate working women.

#52024-05-06

While I totally understand the late policy, unfortunately my daughter and I drove 1.5 hrs to the facility and given the weather and errorous directions, we ended up being 7 mins late. I immediately called the office while on route to explain that we were lost and sought correct directions. The receptionist was very curt, short and condesending. Upon our arrival, there was no warm greeting and very limited eye contact. Again,as a heath care provider myself, I appreciate the need to follow a schedule, however, our appointments were in direct succession and I do not think it would have had a significant impact on the work schedule, given our special circumstance.

#62011-03-24 10:10:11

More appointment availability either early or later (before or after the normal 9-5 workday)

#72010-08-23 16:22:28

no recommendations necessary

#82024-05-05

Foodcoffe

#92024-11-24

Nothing!

#102024-06-08

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