What is Alopecia Areata?

What is Alopecia Areata?

What is Alopecia Areata?

Understanding Alopecia Areata: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Alopecia areata (pronounced al-o-pee-sha air-e-ah-tah) is an autoimmune disease that causes unpredictable hair loss. While it can affect any hairy area of the body, it most commonly manifests on the scalp and beard area. This website content will guide you through everything you need to know about Alopecia Areata, from its causes and symptoms to available treatment options

What is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata disrupts the normal hair growth cycle. In a healthy individual, hair follicles go through phases of growth, rest, and shedding. However, in someone with Alopecia Areata, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, interrupting this cycle and leading to hair loss.

Types of Alopecia Areata:

  • Alopecia Areata: This is the most common form, characterized by one or more smooth, round patches of hair loss, typically about the size of a quarter.
  • Alopecia Totalis: This refers to complete hair loss on the scalp.
  • Alopecia Universalis: This is the rarest form, causing complete hair loss on the scalp and entire body.

Symptoms of Alopecia Areata:

Causes of Alopecia Areata:

The exact cause of Alopecia Areata remains unknown. However, it's believed to be an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks healthy tissues. Genetics and environmental factors may also play a role.

Living with Alopecia Areata:

Alopecia Areata is not contagious and does not pose a physical health risk. However, it can cause emotional distress and affect self-esteem. Support groups and counseling can be helpful resources for managing these challenges.