Alopecia Areata: Understanding Patchy Hair Loss and Your Options
Finding a smooth, coin sized bald patch can be quite a shock. Whether it was your hairdresser who noticed it first or you spotted it whilst brushing your teeth, the first reaction is usually horror. Take a deep breath. Patchy hair loss has a name, it is more common than you might think and there are treatments available.
What is Alopecia Areata?
It is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the hair follicles, causing hair to fall out in round or oval patches. The scalp is the usual location, but beards, eyebrows and eyelashes can also be affected. The skin is generally normal in appearance, without any redness, pain or itchiness. It is not contagious and not your fault.
What causes it?
There is no single explanation, but genetics can play a role so if it runs in the family, you are more likely to get it. Stress, poor diet, hormonal changes and illness can all be contributing factors. Sometimes the hair grows back on its own, sometimes it takes longer, but it will come back, eventually.
What is the role of homeopathy?
People exploring homeopathy treatment for alopecia areata often want to understand the available options and their potential outcomes. The good news is that homeopathy treats the individual, not the symptom. The doctor will look at your lifestyle, stress levels and any other medical conditions that may be exacerbating the issue before designing a treatment plan specific to you. Dr Batra’s, for example, uses a magnified analysis of your scalp to track down the cause, such as the follicles that have been affected, before monitoring your progress closely throughout your treatment. Their doctors report a high rate of regrowth, but as everyone is different, it is always worth asking them what they expect to see in your particular case.
What happens at the first appointment?
As well as a physical examination, the doctor will spend a considerable amount of time asking you about your life. They will want to know how you are sleeping, what you eat and whether there has been anything particularly stressful going on in your life recently. They may also take some photographs to track your progress. It is a personal, in-depth consultation, rather than a quick prescription.
Is Alopecia Areata the only condition you can treat?
Homeopathy Treatment for Hair Loss is available for a range of issues, including general hair loss and thinning, as well as bald patches. The same principles apply, by looking at the root cause of the problem and working on the body to encourage regrowth. Dr Batra’s, for example, describe their treatment as natural and no surgery is involved.
Day to day tips
Alongside any medical treatment, there are some day to day changes that can have a positive impact. A diet rich in protein, iron and vitamin D will help your hair to grow. So will getting enough sleep and finding ways to relax if you are stressed. Avoid pulling your hair back too tight or using harsh chemicals and heat styling tools. Finally, protect your scalp from sun damage.
When should I see a doctor?
If your bald patches are spreading quickly, you are losing hair elsewhere on your head or your eyebrows and eyelashes are falling out, then you should see a doctor. It is also a good idea to get checked out if your nails are changing or if you have any other symptoms such as a sore, itchy or burning scalp. This will help to rule out other conditions such as thyroid problems or fungal infections. Once a diagnosis has been made, treatment can begin. It is important to be patient as it can take several months for new hair to grow.
Final thoughts
Having bald patches is not a life sentence. Educate yourself, consult a qualified doctor and make some lifestyle changes that will improve your general wellbeing and help your hair to regrow. And be kind to yourself throughout the process.