Alopecia Totalis Causes Symptoms Treatment And Risks

What Is Alopecia Totalis?

Alopecia totalis is a type of autoimmune disease which involves the immune system attacking the hair follicles. This excess inflammation often leads to bald spots on the scalp, eventually leading to complete loss of hair. This hair loss condition may even affect the eyebrows or eyelashes. The condition can develop suddenly or over a period of time, irrespective of age. However, it is more prevalent in men than women. If the hair follicles are not destroyed, there is a possibility that your hair may regrow, even after years (1). Ashley Travis, a blogger, faced an emotional whirlwind when she discovered a small bald patch, leading to a relentless search for answers. She said, “I had taken better care of my head than I ever had in my life and my bald spot was growing. I needed answers and I needed them now (i).” Despite various treatments and consultations, her distress grew as the bald spots multiplied, impacting her self-worth profoundly. According to a meta-analysis of 94 studies, only 2% of the global population have a lifetime risk of developing sudden, patchy hair loss. Alopecia totalis is even rarer than that. The study observes that the condition affects only 0.03% of the global population. However, its prevalence has been rising in recent times. So, this autoimmune disease affects healthy hair follicles. But what causes this condition? Keep reading to find out.

What Causes Alopecia Totalis?

The exact cause of alopecia totalis is unknown. It is believed that allergies, toxins, stress, or even viruses can trigger this autoimmune condition, especially if an individual has a genetic predisposition to the same. So, it is important to look for a family history of alopecia. Wondering if there are any other symptoms to look out for? Find out in the next section!

What Are The Symptoms Of Alopecia Totalis?

The symptoms of alopecia totalis may vary from person to person. However, excessive hair loss on the scalp is a common symptom. People have also been observed to experience:

Rapid or sudden hair loss Discomfort on the scalp (a feeling of tightness) Itching Soreness Brittle or pitted nails

Alopecia totalis is diagnosed through careful physical examination by a trichologist followed by various tests, including a biopsy, to determine the autoimmune or genetic causes. Find out all about the different types of treatments available in the next section.

Treatment For Alopecia Totalis

Currently, there is no cure for alopecia totalis. However, there are some treatments available that are currently being studied as a potential cure for this condition.

What Is The Recovery Rate For Alopecia Totalis?

The recovery rate for alopecia totalis is very low due to its erratic progression. If the inflammation is reduced and the immune response suppressed, there is a possibility that the hair might regrow. There are a few risks associated with this type of hair loss. Learn more about them in the next section.

Risk Associated With Alopecia Totalis

There are some risks and mental health concerns such as depression, hopelessness, isolation, and anger that are commonly observed in people diagnosed with alopecia totalis. People may also experience body image issues and reduced self-confidence to this condition. So, it is important to support the treatment with therapy. Keep in mind there is no cure for AT, and the treatments currently available come with potentially dangerous side effects. Anecdotal evidence suggests that people with AT are at an increased risk of developing cancer, though there is little evidence to support this claim. Can alopecia totalis disappear? No. Alopecia totalis is a rare autoimmune disease and can’t be cured. However, there are treatments to help manage it, and hair regrowth is possible. Is alopecia totalis life-threatening? No. Alopecia totalis is not life-threatening. However, it is a recurring condition that can expose your scalp to harsh weather damage.

Watch the following video to uncover the causes behind Alopecia Totalis or complete hair loss. Learn about the potential triggers and complexities associated with this condition.