Alopecia Areata – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

What is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata (Latin: alopecia areata) is one of the more unpredictable forms of hair loss. This disease belongs to the group of non-scarring types of alopecia, which means that hair follicles are not permanently destroyed, and hair has the potential to regrow. The problem is that no one can predict when or if this will happen at all.

A characteristic feature of alopecia areata is the sudden appearance of one or several round bald patches, most often on the scalp. In extreme cases, it leads to complete hair loss on the head (alopecia totalis) or even all over the body (alopecia universalis).

The disease can occur at any age and affects both men and women. Hair can fall out gradually or within a short time, which often causes great stress in patients. Moreover, alopecia areata is a chronic condition – symptoms may subside and return without a clear reason.

Causes of Alopecia Areata – Do We Know the Culprit?

Despite numerous scientific studies, the exact causes of alopecia areata remain a mystery. It’s a bit like assembling a complicated puzzle without all the pieces – we know quite a lot, but key information is still missing.

Currently, experts point to several main factors that may play a role in the development of this disease:

1. Autoimmune Attacks on Own Hair

Alopecia areata is most commonly associated with autoimmunity. Simply put – the body mistakenly recognizes hair follicles as enemies. T lymphocytes, which normally protect us from infections, play a key role in this process but in this case attack own cells, causing inflammation and inhibiting hair growth.

2. Genetics – Is Alopecia Areata Hereditary?

If someone in the family had alopecia areata, there is a higher risk that you might be affected as well. Scientists have discovered that people with certain gene variants related to the immune system are more susceptible to this disease.

3. Stress – Can Strong Emotions Trigger Alopecia?

Stress often appears in the context of alopecia areata but is not a direct cause. However, it can act as a trigger in people predisposed to the disease. Strong emotional experiences, chronic stress or trauma may weaken the immune system, which favors the appearance of the first bald patches.

4. Hormonal Disorders and Comorbid Diseases

Some studies suggest that endocrine disorders, especially thyroid diseases, may influence the development of alopecia areata. People suffering from atopic dermatitis or Down syndrome also more frequently experience this problem.

5. Infections and Environmental Factors

Some scientists indicate a possible link between alopecia areata and infections, e.g. the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, responsible for stomach ulcers. Although there is no conclusive evidence, it is worth remembering that microorganisms may influence immune system function and cause unwanted reactions.

Do Hair Regrow? – Prognosis and Treatment

Good news? In many cases hair can regrow because hair follicles are not permanently damaged. Bad news? There is no single proven treatment method that works for everyone.

The most commonly used treatment methods are:

Corticosteroids – anti-inflammatory drugs used topically or in injections, which inhibit the autoimmune reaction.

Minoxidil – a popular agent used for various types of hair loss, which stimulates circulation in the scalp and supports hair regrowth.

Topical Immunotherapy – involves inducing a controlled inflammation of the skin that “redirects” the immune system’s attention to another threat.

Phototherapy (PUVA) – using UV radiation combined with photosensitizing drugs can stimulate hair growth.

Modern Biological Therapies – JAK inhibitors (e.g. tofacitinib, ruxolitinib) show promising results in treating alopecia areata by blocking inflammation at the cellular level.

One should not forget about a healthy lifestyle, stress reduction and psychological support – many people struggling with alopecia areata experience problems with self-esteem and confidence.

Can Alopecia Areata Be Overcome?

Alopecia areata is an unpredictable and complex disease whose causes are not fully understood. Although there is currently no 100% effective cure, various therapies can help halt hair loss and stimulate regrowth.

The most important thing? Don’t give up! Every case of alopecia areata is different, and proper diagnosis and an individual treatment approach can increase the chances of success.

Suspect alopecia areata? Don’t wait – consult a dermatologist or trichologist and find out your options!

Call: +48530377550

Write: spa@marinaclubhotel.pl