Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden hair loss in small, round patches on the scalp or other body areas. Recognizing the early signs can help you seek timely treatment and manage this condition effectively. In this blog, we will discuss what alopecia areata is and its early signs. Also, we will discuss which clinic offers the best alopecia areata treatment in Gurgaon.
What is Alopecia Areata?
Alopecia areata happens when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, the small sacs from which hair grows. This attack stops or slows hair production and causes hair to fall out in patches. The condition can affect anyone, at any age or gender, and hair loss might also happen in areas such as eyebrows, eyelashes, beards, or other body parts.
Early Signs of Alopecia Areata
1. Sudden Patchy Hair Loss
The most common early sign is sudden hair loss in small, smooth, round, or oval patches. These bald spots usually appear on the scalp but may also be found on the beard, eyebrows, or any other hair-bearing part of the body. The skin on these patches looks normal, without redness, scaling, or irritation. Sometimes, multiple patches appear, getting larger or spreading over time.
2. Experiencing Itching, Tingling, or Burning Sensations
Some individuals experience light itching, tingling, or burning sensations in areas where their hair is going to fall off. Such sensations may appear when you have not yet started losing hair, but they do not always occur.
3. Hair Loss Outside the Scalp
Hair loss in other parts, such as the eyebrows, eyelashes, and face, may also occur at an early age. Eyelash or eyebrow loss can lead to irritation of the eyes or dryness since the hairs shelter the eyes from sweat and dust.
4. Nail Changes
Alopecia areata affects fingernails and toenails in approximately 10-20% of cases. Tiny dents or pits on the nails, tough or brittle nails, lengthwise ridges, or easily broken nails are all early warning signs. These nail changes can occur before or during hair loss.
5. Band-like Hair Loss (Ophiasis)
In some cases, hair loss forms a band or strip along the sides or lower back of the scalp. This pattern, called ophiasis, is less common and might be more challenging to treat.
If not treated, alopecia areata patches may connect to create larger bald spots. Other individuals lose more extensive amounts of hair, covering the entire scalp (alopecia totalis) or even the whole body (alopecia universalis), but this is rare.
When should I see a doctor?
Noticing bald spots or sudden hair loss? Seek help from a leading dermatologist right away. Early treatment helps in controlling the condition and promotes regrowth of hair.
Searching for the best dermatologist in Gurgaon to get treated for alopecia areata? Consult Dr. Neha Sharma at Estique Clinic. To treat this condition, she recommends advanced treatments such as creams and lotions, injections, and medications. The cost of the treatment at the clinic ranges from Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 10,000. Visit the clinic now to get proper treatment.
