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It is estimated that there are approximately 2.5 million men, women and children in the U.S. with some degree of alopecia areata. It is a fairly common condition which in most cases is temporary. There are three basic types of alopecia areata. The most common is patchy alopecia areata appearing as small, smooth circular areas of hair loss. The others are alopecia totalis (complete loss of scalp hair), and alopecia universalis (complete loss of all body hair). Although the cause is not yet clearly know, researchers feel alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition. The National Alopecia Areata Foundation points out that other than the hair and occasionally the nails, no other part of the body is affected. Heredity plays a role in approximately 20% of those with alopecia areata. You may contact the National Alopecia Areata Foundation at:
NAAF
P.O. Box 150760
San Rafael, California 94915-0760
(415) 456-4644
TREATMENT
Although there is no known cure for alopecia areata, the patchy form responds to medical treatments the most effectively, while alopecia totalis and universalis are more difficult to treat.
A visit to a competent dermatologist is recommended at the onset of alopecia areata. Not all dermatologists are well versed in diagnosing and treating alopecia areata. The AHLC recommends contacting your closest University Hospital Dermatology Department if you cannot find a dermatologist in your local area.
WIGS & PROSTHESES
If you do not respond to medical treatment and do not wish to greet the world as you are, a wig or prosthesis may be an important asset. What you should know about alopecia areata is that it is unpredictable! You may wish to cover a patchy area with a small hair addition, yet within a few weeks might find it ineffective due to further migration of the alopecia. Avoid partial hair additions or any type of hairpiece that relies on the existing hair until you know your condition is stabilized. (The dermatologist can answer this best). There are many attractive head coverings now made for those with alopecia areata in the way of turbans, scarves and caps.
HAIR TRANSPLANTATION
Alopecia areata is "recipient dominant" and hair transplants do not work.
MAGIC SOLUTIONS
Unfortunately, there are no magical cures. However, many firms wish to take advantage of your emotions when you are faced with alopecia areata. The most magical relief for alopecia areata comes from you own body. Nearly 90% of those with alopecia areata will only experience episodes. In most cases the body will turn to its own management system which is the true magic!
PARENTS & GUARDIANS OF CHILDREN
Children are often better equipped to handle alopecia areata than adults. The AHLC suggests supporting the child's choice when it comes to purchasing a wig or prosthesis for him/her. Putting pressure on child to wear a wig can often transmit the wrong message of "You're not O.K. the way your are!"
INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR WIGS & PROSTHESES
Some insurance policies cover wigs and prostheses. For more information regarding insurance coverage and specialists who offer wigs and prostheses contact the American Hair Loss Council.
COPING THROUGH SUPPORT GROUPS
Support Groups have been formed across the country. By calling the National Alopecia Areata Foundation you can meet others just like yourself who, through their own experiences, have already paved many roads for you.
Many people have become experts with wigs and makeup and have already found out who the best physicians are in their area. Save money and frustration and learn through the real experts. Those living with the condition!
Call (415) 456-4644 for the closest Support Group in your area.
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