Alopecia Areata: What You Need to Know About This
Alopecia areata drew the attention of many through Chris Rock’s joke about Will Smith’s wife, Jada.
We’ve heard so many times that hair is our crowning glory. Women, in particular, have often used hair as a form of expression whether it be long, medium, or cropped. But losing hair can break one’s confidence, especially when you have alopecia areata.
What is Alopecia Areata?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, alopecia areata is defined as a “disease that develops when the body attacks its own hair follicles, which can cause hair loss anywhere on the body.”
Alopecia is another term for hair loss and it’s not just about the hair on the head. It can also affect other parts of the body.
Alopecia does not choose any age. Some already experience it during their childhood while others during adult stage. The AAD also mentioned on its website that if a parent has alopecia, chances are their child can inherit it.
Types of Alopecia
Aside from alopecia areata, there are two other types of alopecia. These are:
- Alopecia totalis – The person loses hair on the scalp, leaving it completely bald.
- Alopecia univeralis – The person loses hair all over the body. This, however, is a rare case.
A common sign of alopecia is a bald spot on the scalp. However, this depends on your case because you can lose hair in any part of the body. Other probable signs include red and brittle nails.
There are no symptoms of alopecia areata. Buf if you do have, some of the probable signs include the following when your hair:
- Starts to regrow on its own after it falls out
- Loss occurs during cold months
- Regrows on the bald spot but you lose in another area
Treatment for alopecia areata
Doctors and researchers continue to look at treatments for those with alopecia. But some treatments have been made available such as injections and minoxidil. The most important thing to do however is to seek a dermatologist who can give you the proper treatment and diagnosis.
Understanding alopecia areata
It’s very important that people understand the condition of alopecia. The loss of hair for many can be traumatizing—especially women who have taken care of their hair. Some are also sensitive about it as seen during the Academy Awards last March 27 in Los Angeles where Will Smith was unhappy that Chris Rock poked fun of his wife Jada, who had the condition.
Alopecia is a condition that is curable. Always remember to seek a doctor and if you encounter someone with it, be empathic about his or her situation.
Worried about your hair and self-care? Check out more stories on Modern Parenting!
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