As a dermatologist with a special interest in hair and scalp disorders, I am often asked about the signs and symptoms of alopecia areata, a condition that affects the immune system and causes hair loss on the scalp and other areas of the body. Alopecia areata can be a distressing experience for those who suffer from it, but understanding the signs and symptoms can help in early diagnosis and treatment.

Patchy Hair Loss
The hallmark symptom of alopecia areata is patchy hair loss. This typically begins with one or more smooth, round patches of baldness on the scalp, about the size of a coin. These patches can appear anywhere on the scalp and may be the first noticeable sign of the condition. Some people might not even realize they have alopecia areata until they see hair on their pillow or in the shower, or until someone else points out the bald spots.

Sudden Onset
Alopecia areata often develops quite suddenly. People may wake up one morning to find a bald spot where there was none the day before. This can be quite alarming and is a common reason why individuals seek medical attention.

Hair Shedding
In addition to the bald patches, individuals with alopecia areata may also experience increased hair shedding. This can happen all over the scalp or just around the affected areas. It's not uncommon for people to notice more hair than usual on their hairbrush, in the shower drain, or on their clothes.

Patches on Other Body Parts
While alopecia areata most commonly affects the scalp, it can also cause hair loss on other parts of the body, including the eyebrows, eyelashes, and beard area. This is known as alopecia universalis when the entire body is affected.

Nail Changes
Some people with alopecia areata may also notice changes in their nails. These can include small depressions called pits, white spots, or even changes in the texture and thickness of the nails.

Itching or Burning Sensation
In some cases, there might be an itching or burning sensation in the scalp or the area where hair is lost. This is not a universal symptom, but it can be a sign that the immune system is attacking the hair follicles.

Family History
Alopecia areata can run in families, so if you have a family history of the condition, you may be at a higher risk of developing it.

Stress
There is some evidence to suggest that stress can trigger alopecia areata in some individuals. Major life events or ongoing stress can potentially lead to the onset of hair loss.

Diagnosis
Diagnosing alopecia areata usually involves a physical examination of the scalp and sometimes a skin biopsy to confirm the condition. A dermatologist will look for the characteristic smooth, round patches of hair loss and may also examine the hair under a microscope to check for signs of the condition.

Treatment Options
While there is no cure for alopecia areata, there are several treatment options available that can help to slow down or stop hair loss and promote regrowth. These can include corticosteroid injections, topical treatments, and immunosuppressive medications. In some cases, light therapy or even hair transplantation may be considered.

It's important to remember that alopecia areata can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, and it's not contagious. While it can be a challenging condition to live with, there is support available, and many people with alopecia areata lead full and active lives.

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Alopecia areata: Signs and symptoms. If you have alopecia areata, you may have one or more of the following: Patchy hair loss: The problem often begins with 1 or more coin-sized, round, smooth, bare patches where hair once was. You may first notice the problem when you see clumps of hair on your pillow or in the shower ...read more >>