Alopecia Areata

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing sudden, patchy hair loss typically on the scalp but sometimes affecting eyebrows, eyelashes, or other body hair. Unlike pattern hair loss, it often appears as well-defined round or oval bald patches that can develop rapidly over days to weeks. The condition follows an unpredictable course, with hair sometimes regrowing spontaneously in one area while new patches appear elsewhere. In more severe forms, it can progress to complete scalp hair loss or loss of all body hair.

The most common symptoms include: Sudden patchy hair loss in round or oval areas; smooth bald patches without scarring; short broken hairs at the edges of patches; occasional tingling or itching before hair loss. Early recognition is key to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.

No, Alopecia Areata is not contagious. It cannot spread through casual contact. However, certain risk factors and genetic predispositions may increase susceptibility.

Treatment options include: Treatment options include corticosteroid injections directly into affected patches to suppress local immune activity; topical immunotherapy to stimulate regrowth; and newer oral medications called JAK inhibitors for more extensive or resistant cases. Some cases resolve spontaneously without treatment. Treatment should always be guided by a qualified Dermatology specialist. Do not self-medicate.

While Alopecia Areata cannot always be fully prevented, several measures can reduce risk: No known prevention due to autoimmune basis; but managing stress; early treatment to potentially slow progression.

Consult a Dermatology specialist if symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen despite home care, or significantly affect your daily activities. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.