What is alopecia areata? Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease characterized by hair loss. This eMedTV page explains who alopecia areata affects, what its symptoms are, and how it can be treated.
There are three layers of skin that work together to protect you and keep you healthy. This eMedTV article takes a closer look at skin, including information on what it is made of, as well as a description of what each layer does.
As this eMedTV article explains, the cause of alopecia areata is linked to an autoimmune disease, but it is unknown how the disease slows hair production. This article discusses the possible causes of this condition in greater detail.
The most common alopecia areata symptoms are a few bare patches of hair loss. This eMedTV article also discusses more rare signs and symptoms, such as complete loss of hair on the head, face, or body, including eyelashes and eyebrows.
As this eMedTV segment explains, alopecia areata treatment can involve topical medications, photochemotherapy, and oral drugs. These treatments may lead to hair growth, but they will not prevent future hair loss or cure the underlying disease.
Alternative treatment for alopecia areata comes in many forms, such as: acupuncture, zinc, and herbal supplements. This eMedTV page describes these forms of alternative treatment for alopecia areata and the importance of talking to a doctor first.
An alopecia areata prognosis is different for each person. As this eMedTV article explains, the hair that was lost may or may not grow back and you may or may not continue to develop new patches of hair loss.
Over 4 million Americans are living with alopecia areata at some point during their life. This eMedTV article explains ways to minimize the appearance of hair loss, the importance of skin protection, and other tips for living with alopecia areata.
While alopecia areata in children usually causes only a few bare patches, some children may lose more hair. This portion of the eMedTV library explores the effects of alopecia areata in children and discusses various treatment options.
At this time, there is no cure for alopecia areata. As this eMedTV Web page explains, although no true cure exists, some treatments may help hair re-grow. There are also ways to make the hair loss less prominent.
As this eMedTV segment explains, a few promising areas of research on alopecia areata include mapping genes and finding improved ways to administer drugs. This article explains the latest advances in research on this condition.
If you have noticed small patches of hair loss, you may wonder about alopecia areata and who gets it. As this eMedTV article explains, alopecia areata is a disease that affects the hair follicles and causes the hair to fall out.
