Alopecia (Hair Loss)
What is alopecia?
Alopecia is the general medical term for hair thinning or hair loss.
Hair loss is categorized by two terms – scarring hair loss and non-scarring hair loss.
Scarring hair loss
Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, is a type of hair loss caused by the destruction of the hair follicles. It is often the result of infections, chemicals, burns or autoimmune disorders.
Non-scarring hair loss
Non-scarring hair loss, also known as noncicatricial alopecia, is the loss of hair without any scarring being present. Hair follicles are preserved and there is typically little inflammation and irritation, but hair loss can be significant.
Causes
There causes of hair loss are multifactorial and symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options offer on a case-by-case basis.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis, thyroid disease or vitiligo
- Family history of the condition
It is also possible that illness or emotional stress can bring on alopecia in people who are at risk, but in most cases, there is often no obvious trigger.
Diagnosis
Losing hair can be worrying and unsettling, which is why having a confirmed diagnosis is a very important step for patients with alopecia. A dermatologist can usually inform patients of their diagnosis following a simple examination of their scalp, using a hair pull technique or a swab. In some cases, a skin biopsy will be recommended to determine or reach a diagnosis. Additionally, blood tests can sometimes be recommended to see if there are any additional factors contributing towards hair loss.
Treatment options
As mentioned previously, treatment options for alopecia vary depending on the nature of the diagnosis. Treatment options are discussed with patients so they are aware of what they should expect and any potential side effects are outlined.
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment options could include:
- Topical agents to apply to the scalp
- Oral medication treatment
- Steroid injections or creams
Here at One Hatfield Hospital, we have a team of highly skilled dermatologists on hand to assess, diagnose and treat a range of conditions including alopecia.
Located in Hertfordshire, One Hatfield is ideally located to provide alopecia treatment to patients living in St Albans, Stevenage, Hertford, Watford, Welwyn, and all nearby areas.
You can use your private medical insurance or pay for your Alopecia (Hair Loss) treatment. We offer competitive, fixed price packages. If you are using your health insurance, please contact your insurer first for approval and let them know you’d like to be treated at One Ashford Hospital
Why One Ashford Hospital
- Access to leading Consultants within 48 hours*
- 0% and low finance options**
- Competitive fixed-price packages
- Modern purpose-built hospital
- Private, spacious, ensuite rooms
- Specialist Physiotherapy and nursing teams
- Little waiting time for surgery
- Calm, dignified experience
*Dependent on Consultant availability
**Terms and conditions apply
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