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What Is Alopecia In Women?
Alopecia is the term used to describe hair loss or baldness in women. It can affect the scalp, or other parts of the body. Alopecia in women can vary in severity and can range from mild thinning of the hair to complete baldness.
Types Of Alopecia In Women
There are three main types of alopecia seen in women. The most common type of alopecia seen in women is called androgenic alopecia (female pattern baldness). This type of alopecia is caused by an overproduction of hormones and is hereditary. Other types of alopecia seen in women include alopecia areata, which is a form of auto-immune hair loss, and traction alopecia, which is caused by excessive styling and grooming.
Symptoms Of Alopecia In Women
The most common symptom of alopecia in women is thinning hair. In some cases, the hair may become patchy, brittle, or slow growing. In more severe cases, the scalp may become completely bald, or the hair may break off at the skin’s surface. In most cases, the hair loss is gradual and may take months or years to progress.
Treatment Options For Alopecia In Women
There are several treatment options for alopecia in women. In the case of androgenic alopecia, prescription medications such as minoxidil or spironolactone may be prescribed. In the case of alopecia areata, corticosteroid injections or topical creams may be prescribed. In the case of traction alopecia, the damage may be reversed through gentle styling and topical treatments.
Health Effects Of Alopecia In Women
The health effects of alopecia in women can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, the psychological effects may be the most significant as alopecia can cause significant hair loss and can cause insecurity and low self-esteem. In more severe cases, alopecia can cause inflammation and scarring of the scalp, which can lead to permanent hair loss. Additionally, alopecia can cause anemia, since the decreased production of hair can lead to decreased iron absorption.
