Alopecia refers to hair loss either diffusely or in patches not only on the scalp but elsewhere on the body like eyebrows, eyelashes or beard. The amount and severity of hair loss differ from person to person, so it is categorized into three types i.e. Alopecia areata where hair loss occurs in patches, Alopecia totalis where there is a total loss of hair on the scalp and Alopecia universalis in this type there is a loss of hair on the entire body.

Common causes of alopecia include chemotherapy, anemia, hypothyroidism, fungal infection, radiation therapy, lupus erythematosus, sarcoidosis, HIV/AIDS, dandruff, malnutrition, Menopause, psoriasis, tinea infection, lichen planus on scalp, drugs like Anti-cancer drugs, Epilepsy drugs etc.

Hair loss is of two types:

1. Male pattern hair loss (Hair fall first begins in temple region)
2. Female pattern hair loss (Hair fall in frontal and parietal region)

The effective and safest treatment for alopecia is Homoeopathy. The primary intention of treating alopecia with Homoeopathy is to promote healthy hair follicle which in turn produces healthy hair. By treating the causative factor, it gives long-standing and established result.

What Are The Various Causes Of Hair Loss In Alopecia Areata?

Autoimmune response: Alopecia areata occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, considering them foreign invaders. This attack disrupts the normal hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss.

Genetic predisposition: A family history of alopecia areata or other autoimmune conditions increases the likelihood of developing the condition. Certain genes may play a role in making individuals more susceptible to autoimmune reactions.

Abnormal immune response: People with alopecia areata often have abnormal immune responses, which can be triggered by various factors. These triggers may include physical or emotional stress, illness, hormonal changes, or environmental factors.

Other autoimmune conditions: Individuals with certain autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disorders, vitiligo, or rheumatoid arthritis, have a higher risk of developing alopecia areata. This suggests a shared underlying mechanism of autoimmune dysfunction.

Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals, viruses, or allergens, may trigger or exacerbate alopecia areata in susceptible individuals. However, the specific triggers are not yet well understood.

Psychological factors: Emotional or psychological stress is often associated with the onset or worsening of alopecia areata. Although stress alone is not considered a direct cause, it can contribute to the autoimmune response and exacerbate the condition.

Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal changes, particularly in women, can sometimes contribute to hair loss. Hormones play a role in regulating the hair growth cycle, and imbalances may disrupt normal hair growth patterns.

What Are The Symptoms Of Alopecia Areata?

• Patchy hair loss
• Hair loss on other body areas
• Regrowth in patches
• Nail abnormalities
• Itching or tingling