Hair Loss · 3 min read
Alopecia Areata Is an Autoimmune Disease: Causes & Help
Alopecia areata happens when the immune system attacks hair follicles. What causes it and what can be done.
By the Hair Solutions of Long Island specialists ·
The short answer
In alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly targets hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss. Treatment can encourage regrowth, and toppers, hair replacement and medical wigs offer natural-looking coverage.
When the Body Attacks Its Own Follicles
The definition of an autoimmune disease is a breakdown of your body’s immune system. Alopecia Areata attacks the healthy hair follicles on the head resulting in patches of hair falling out. They are usually round in shape and about the size of a quarter. Some have more severe hair loss while others lose only a small. For many, it creates a host of concerns especially when it comes to self-awareness and image.
According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, more than 6.8 million people have been diagnosed with it in the United States, and as many as 147 million people globally experience some form of this condition.
What Causes Alopecia Areata?
A specific reason has not yet been determined. Researchers are continuing to studying to understand what triggers the body’s immune system to respond this way. Many studies have indicated that STRESS plays a significant role in the development and early onset of the condition. Stress (which can affect all people of all ages) can be a catalyst to this condition as well as hair loss in general. In these difficult times many people (most) are feeling extremely high levels of stress. Try some yoga, meditation, or some simple breathing exercises to help reduce stress. There may also be a genetic susceptibility.
What Can Be Done About It?
In some situations, people with mild symptoms (like small coin-sized area(s) of hair loss); the condition may correct itself within a few months.
Sometimes corticosteroids can help. This is an anti-inflammatory treatment/drug that can help to suppress the immune system. It works to possibly reduce the frequency of flare ups or the severity of alopecia and is often given as a topical ointment, but it can also be administered orally or via an injection.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alopecia Areata and many men and women who have it will see it come and go over time. In some cases, medications and treatment options can help to reduce the flare ups but some have side effects and are only effective for a limited amount of time. Many people with Alopecia Areata often see their hair grow back depending on the severity of their condition.
Frequently asked questions
Is alopecia areata hereditary?
Genetics play a role, and it is more common in people with a family history of autoimmune conditions.
Can stress trigger alopecia areata?
Stress may trigger flare-ups in people who are already prone to it.
