Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Areata is a type of Alopecia, which is a common autoimmune disorder that often results in sudden unpredictable hair loss. Affecting around 147 million people worldwide, the condition causes hair to fall out in small patches, causing bald patches which may overlap.
Alopecia Totalis is the condition when all the hair on the scalp is lost. Alopecia Universalis is the condition where all bodily hair is lost.
What are the symptoms?
Bald patches across the scalp
Thinning of hair
Clumps of hair coming out in the shower
Causes
Alopecia can affect anyone, and cases tend to develop before the age of 30. Changes of developing alopecia are greater if you have a family history of autoimmune disorders such as diabetes, lupus or thyroid disease. Alopecia is an autoimmune disease, in this instance the body attacks the hair follicles, causing hair attached to them to fall out.
Diagnosis
Alopecia is usually diagnosed by checking the areas where the hair has been lost and looking at your nails.
How it is treated conventionally?
Unfortunately, alopecia cannot be cured, however, it can be treated and regrowth of hair can be seen.
In most cases, alopecia is treated with the following drugs:
Corticosteroids: Used for anti-inflammatory drugs
Rogaine: Used for pattern baldness, usually takes 12 weeks of treatment before hair begins to grow
How does Surrey Centre for Nutrition work with Alopecia Areata?
As with all autoimmune conditions we are looking to identify any underlying triggers of the autoimmune attack present. We would often start by looking at gastrointestinal health and the integrity of the lining of the gut or to put it another way how ‘leaky’ the gut is. What this means is that the barrier between the inside of the gut and the bloodstream is damaged enabling food particles which have only been partially digested to pass through into the bloodstream. From this point the immune system may attack these food particles and in some cases may then set up an immune response to hair follicle cells that ‘look the same’ or possess what we term molecular mimicry to the food particles. We would often then move on to identify if any other tiggers are present such as chemicals and toxins, viral, bacterial, parasitic or fungal infections. Additionally we place a focus on supporting the clients wellbeing with regards to stress, sleep and mental wellness. Often Alopecia comes with significant anxiety which can hinder the progress of therapy so supportive protocols are put into place to support the client's mental wellness and stress response.
Are you ready to work with us to reach your health goals?
If you or someone you know is suffering from the symptoms or conditions listed above, Surrey Centre for Nutrition may be able to help. We typically work with clients for 3-6 months depending on your health concerns. Are you interested in working with us?
Book a discovery call to see how the Surrey Centre for Nutrition can help
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