Alopecia is the partial or complete loss of hair, and usually has a gradual onset. It may appear all at once, which is known as diffuse alopecia, or patches of hair may be affected over time. Alopecia is not limited to gender as both men and women are affected by alopecia around the world. Alopecia is a condition that can affect emotional well being, social and even financial stature and influences all aspects of life for many people. Billions of dollars are spent every year by people hoping to halt or reverse their alopecia and the amount people seeking answers and the money that is being spent is growing day by day.
Hair loss and hair thinning can be caused by the following factors:
You should be sure to contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:
If you suspect you are suffering from alopecia, the doctor may verify the following:
These questions may shed light on the cause of your alopecia as well as the level of severity. Be sure to answer these questions to the best of your ability.
My friend Spencer Kobren has a saying that I have always enjoyed but it also represents what I feel is the real potential extent of mental illness that may be attributed to alopecia. Spencer Kobren calls hair loss “a silent epidemic of biblical proportions”. When you consider the fact that 2/3 of all men over the age of 35 suffer from some sort of alopecia and 40% of all hair loss sufferers are women, I don’t think Spencer is far off the mark with his assessment.
These questions may shed light on the cause of your alopecia as well as the level of severity. Be sure to answer these questions to the best of your ability.