There are a number of autoimmune disorders causing hair loss today. In this article, I will explore the autoimmune disorders that greatly increase hair loss.
Alopecia Areata (AA)
This is the first thing that springs to most people’s mind when they hear of autoimmune disorders. This condition most often manifests itself in hair loss that is seen as bald spots in the scalp. Though the area around the patch is normal in most cases, the round spots are bald.
Alopecia areata universalis is another autoimmune disorder that is most prevalent. This case is manifested by hair loss over the whole body including the head as well as other areas like eyelashes, pubic hair, beard area, and the underarms. You can see “exclamation point hairs” when this process is occurring. “Exclamation point hairs” are hairs that are broken off and are tapered and are much narrowed as you get to the scalp. The actual cause of AA is a matter of dispute though most agree that it is indeed autoimmune in nature. This problem is increased by stress and exposure to viruses or conditions that one is allergic to. The treatment for this condition may include oral steroids, corticosteroid injections, or using traditional herbs such as rosemary and lavender.
Lupus
This is the most common autoimmune disorder after AA.Those infected with this condition are affected by malar rash that can affect the scalp and then cause scarring which can lead to temporary or permanent hair loss. The most visible symptom of this condition is the manifestation of the “exclamation point.”
Thyroid Issues
Many people are not aware of the autoimmune thyroid issues. One disease that is as a result of the thyroid issue is the graves disease where your hair will become much finer and there will be an increase in hair loss. The texture becomes too soft to hold any hairstyle. The strands also become lighter in color. With the Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, the hair becomes very coarse and dry but the hair loss is increased nonetheless.
Other autoimmune disorders that may increase hair loss include rheumatoid arthritis, intestinal cystitis, fibromyalgia, celic disease, and guillain-barre syndrome.
Treatment for Autoimmune Disorders
Most drugs that are prescribed for autoimmune disorders are given to reduce the inflammatory process because there is almost always an inflammation component to hair loss. Steroids however have enormous side effects. Always concentrate on the natural treatment methods first before deciding to use medication because they could have serious side effects.
For instance, you can minimize your stress levels by avoiding stressful situations. You should eat plenty of proteins that are low in fats as well as increase the uptake of vitamins. Vitamins can be readily found in fresh fruits and vegetables. Iron uptake should also be increased. Iron can be gotten from whole grains or liver. Always exercise because exercises help to keep your body relaxed and peaceful hence reducing your stress levels. Good exercises can include squats, yoga, normal weightlifting, etc. These are just a few tips that can help you reduce the effect of autoimmune disorders on your hair and hence always have healthy hair.
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