How to Deal with Alopecia

What exactly is Alopecia? Well it is a medical problem that many people can not control. However it is not contagious and you will not die from it. The term itself refers to the condition where patches of scalp experience a loss of hair. If all of your hair is lost this is call alopecia totalis. If it includes the loss of all body hair than it is referred to as alopecia univerasalis. Many doctors believe that it is probably an autoimmune disorder that is an allergic reaction to some part of your own body. What happens is that the immune system mistakenly identifies the hair as a foreign substance. The immune system responds by sending killer T cells (lymphocytes) to the site. These cluster around the hair follicle and attack and destroy it. There are various types of medical treatment for this condition. However it does take a long time to get results, and when the hair does grow back the texture and color may be different.

Some think that this is cause by stress. However after extensive research doctors have found that this is not the cause. Since the first thing that many people notice about someone is their hair, it can be humiliating and embarrassing for someone who has this condition. Even trying to find a job can be difficult. Sometimes employers mistake this condition for aids or cancer. Some people suggest that they try wearing a wig, or a hairpiece, but did you know that many people who suffer from this condition may also lose their eyebrows, and eyelashes. Alopecia affects 1 out of every 100 people, and it afflicts both men and women. Unfortunately, the various treatments for this disorder are very frequently unsuccessful.

Victims of Alopecia can become reclusive, having low self esteem. It is very important that they have plenty of support from family and friends. Even though there are treatments for this disorder it is possible for it to recur. If you do have this disorder in one form or another there are plenty of things that you can do to help you to cope with this illness. Most importantly is not to isolate yourself, or try to hide what you have from those who love you. I would also recommend talking to your employer about this condition. This way you will not have to worry about anyone speculating on what your condition is, and whether or not you will be able to continue doing your job. Doctors still are unsure as to what causes this illness, or even how to avoid it. If you think that this is smoothing that you may be suffering from make sure to see your doctor right away so that you can begin some form of treatment immediately. Remember, this is not an illness that will take your life, but it will take time for you to adjust, and cope.