subject: News On Alopecia Areata [print this page] Alopecia Areata (AA) is a kind of hair loss disease in which hair can be lost from any hair bearing areas of the body, with more chances to affect the scalp area. Alopecia Areata is quite different from male pattern baldness, and can occur in a number of patterns. This disease can affect any one irrespective of their age and sex. Even though it is a benign condition, alopecia areata can create emotional stress in people who suffer from this condition.
Causes of Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Areata is primarily caused due to the abnormal functioning of the immune system, which in turn results in autoimmunity. Due to this condition, the bodys own immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles thus disrupting the normal growth of hair. This hair loss disorder is also sometimes associated with other categories of autoimmune conditions such as thyroid, lupus, ulcerative colitis, vitiligo, rheumatoid arthritis, and allergic disorders. People with a family history of AA are also prone to get this disease. In addition, factors such as anxiety, stress, and intake of certain medications are also regarded as reasons for the onset of alopecia areata.
Symptoms of Alopecia Areata
The signs and symptoms of Alopecia Areata may include:
Round or oval patches of hair loss
Loss of eyelashes as well as eyebrows
Balding
Bald patches
Mild itching or tenderness in the affected area
Tiny pits on the nails
Types of Alopecia Areata
Depending upon its severity and symptoms, Alopecia Areata is categorized into:
Localized Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Universalis
Alopecia Totalis
Alopecia Areata Barbae
Ophiasis type of alopecia Areata
Diffusion Type of Alopecia Areata
Reticulated Areata Barbae
Perinevoid Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Treatment
The treatments offered for AA is based on its severity as well as the symptoms that a patient shows. Among many of the treatment options available to cure Alopecia Areata are:
Medications such as Anthralin, Sulfasalazine, Minoxidil, and Cyclosporine
Lotions and creams in the form of Rogaine, Cortisone, and Thymusil
Herbal oils with ingredients including lavender, rosemary, and cedarwood
