Most people shed between 50 and 100 hairs per day. If you do more than that, or if it comes out in clumps, you might have alopecia, which 6.9 million Americans share. An autoimmune condition, it is triggered by the body falsely identifying one’s hair as a threat, and attacking it. If you suspect this is what is happening to you, your first step should be speaking to a dermatologist, who can verify the cause of your hair loss and recommend treatments. The guide below also offers more information about this disease.

Symptoms & Risk Factors

Unlike some other forms of balding, alopecia tends to affect the hair in patches—and can be limited to just the scalp or extend across the entire body. Your nails may also show symptoms—becoming thin and lackluster with tiny white spots. The risk is greater in those who already have an autoimmune condition or who have a family history of them. Though alopecia is not dangerous in and of itself, its association with these other diseases is something to look out for. It most often starts in people younger than 30.

Diagnosis & Treatment Options

A dermatologist can often determine if you have alopecia by examining your scalp. However, a skin biopsy can provide a definite result.

While there is no definitive cure for this condition, patients have been able to grow and retain their hair. In some cases, this happens on its own—as some believe that alopecia is exacerbated by stress. However, if it does not, a dermatologist will be able to recommend medications—ranging from topical immunotherapy to corticosteroid ointments, pills, or shots. Often, multiple treatments are used in combination to better support hair growth.

However, while your hair is growing back, it is crucial to protect your head, which will be more vulnerable to cancer-causing UV rays from the sun. Therefore, make sure to wear protection—in the form of hats or scarves—and apply sunscreen regularly.

Concerned about your hair? Whether it is due to alopecia or another cause, reach out to the experts at Heibel Dermatology, LLC in Lincoln, NE. Lead by Dr. Mark D. Heibel, with over 20 years of experience as a dermatologist, this team understands just how scary hair loss or an unexplained rash can be and will use their extensive knowledge to treat the problem. Visit their website to learn about their services designed to make you feel better in your own skin. Or call (402) 488-6969 with questions or to schedule an appointment.