Alopecia, otherwise known as pattern baldness, is the most common cause of baldness. It’s also genetic, so if there’s a history of baldness in your family, then chances are you’ll end up with at least some hair loss yourself.
What’s important to keep in mind, however, is that not all hair loss is caused by genetics. Stress, for example, can result in sudden hair loss or patchy hair loss, but your hair will usually start to regrow after you remove yourself from the stressful situation.
Other causes of hair loss can include thyroid disease or can be a result of when your immune system attacks your body. With so many causes of hair loss, how can you be sure it’s just genetic? If you’re worried, then go and contact us. You can book an online appointment, and we can help you understand your hair loss and work together to get down to the bottom of the cause.
What Are The Types Of Alopecia?
Alopecia can occur in different forms, and the most common types of alopecia include:
- Androgenetic Alopecia: This is the most common and famous type of alopecia and is hereditary. Though common in men, it affects all sexes. It’s characterised by hair thinning and baldness, usually in a predictable pattern.
- Alopecia Areata: This type of alopecia occurs when the immune system attacks parts of the body, including your hair follicles, by mistake. The symptoms of alopecia areata include patchy hair loss on the scalp, face, and body. It can occur suddenly and progress rapidly, leading to complete baldness.
- Alopecia Totalis: This type of alopecia causes total hair loss on the scalp.
- Alopecia Universalis: This type of alopecia causes total hair loss on the scalp, face, and other parts of the body.
What are the Signs of Alopecia?
The signs and symptoms of alopecia depend on the type and severity of the condition. Here are some of the most common signs of alopecia:
- Hair Thinning: Hair thinning is one of the most common signs of alopecia. It can occur gradually or suddenly and affects both men and women. Hair thinning can occur on any part of the scalp or can be a bald spot.
- Bald Patches: Bald patches are another common sign of alopecia, especially for those who develop Alopecia Areata. This type of alopecia causes sudden hair loss in circular or oval-shaped patches on the scalp, beard, or eyebrows. The bald patches may be itchy, painful, or tender, and they can appear suddenly and grow in size over time.
- Changes in Hair Texture: Alopecia can also cause changes in hair texture. The hair may become brittle, dry, and prone to breakage. Additionally, the hair may become lighter, finer, or coarser, which can make it difficult to style.
- Increase in Hair Shedding: An increase in hair shedding is another common symptom of alopecia. Individuals with alopecia may notice an excessive amount of hair falling out during brushing, combing, or washing their hair. They may also find hair on their pillow, clothing, or floor.
- Scalp Changes: Alopecia can also cause changes to the scalp. These changes can include redness, inflammation, or scaling of the scalp, which can be due to fungal or bacterial infections. In addition, the scalp may become itchy, painful, or tender.
Treating Hair Loss
While there is no cure for alopecia areata, there are ways to manage your condition to deal with hair loss and regrowth. If you want to learn more, then start by booking online GP appointments with us today.
