Hair loss caused by alopecia otherwise known as Alopecia areata, is probably the commonest cause of hair loss today, however the condition is still not fully understood by the medical profession and treatments for alopecia are not comprehensive.
In fact there are actually 3 types of hair disorders caused by alopecia and they are different in their severity:
• The first condition is Alopecia areata this causes hair to fall out in patches all over the body.
• The next, alopecia totalis, makes the scalp rapidly shed hair in a very short space of time.
• Finally, alopecia universalis, as it name suggests causes those afflicted to lose hair from not only the head and face, but all over the body simultaneously
The diagnosis of Alopecia is made by taking some sample blood tests where the doctor is looking for hormone levels.
Once the diagnosis is made the correct treatments for alopecia can be decided upon. It has been observed that prescribed alopecia treatment only happens to be really effective when the alopecia is not very severe.
Treatments for Alopecia Areata
Therefore, hair loss caused by alopecia areata can be treated successfully only if the condition is detected in good time.
The usual prescribed remedy for hair loss caused by alopecia consists of one or a combination of the following steps.
Minoxidil is applied directly to the affected area on a daily basis, along with local applications of the Chinese herb, he shou wu, and in some cases a dosage of aloe vera gel.
Alternatively a doctor may also suggest cortisone injections as an effective alopecia treatment and will put them directly into the scalp.
Sometimes creams and lotions can be used as treatments for alopecia instead, but these will have a less effective impact on the ailment when compared to the injection.
The above treatments for alopecia can either turn out to be very effective but also rather disappointing.
The effectiveness of the alopecia treatment can be very much influenced by, the progression of the disease, the underlying causes and any further complications and the general wellbeing of the patient.
For example, if the hair loss caused by alopecia happens to a women going through pre or post-menopausal phase, then the treatment will usually include something to do with the regulation of hormones in the patient’s blood.
If the person is diabetic, then the hair loss will be controlled better if the diabetes is first brought under control, and so on.
Alternative Treatments For Alopecia
The ultimate way to treat hair loss caused by alopecia is a surgical option involving the physical replacement of hair.
The problem is that this process is both very expensive and painstaking therefore you should only really consider it as a last resort.
In addition, you could try some of the many herbal remedies to treat hair loss caused by alopecia that are available. However, do be aware that some of the manufacturers claims can be over exaggerated.
