Overview
Alopecia areata (say "al-uh-PEE-shuh ar-ee-ah-tuh") is a type of hair loss that affects the hair on the scalp or other areas of the body. The condition can go away for some time, and then come back. It's more common in young people, but it can happen at any age.
Your hair may fall out in clumps and grow back over time. The pattern of hair loss and growth is different for everyone. For many people, the hair grows back within a year.
You may decide to wait and see whether your hair grows again before trying medicines. Treatment may include shots in your scalp or skin, pills, or medicine you put on your scalp or skin. However, medicines don't always work.
If you have hair loss, you may have a wide range of feelings. If you need support, try talking to a counselor.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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