The immune system cells, also known as white blood cells fight the rapidly growing cells in hair follicles which is where the hair is made. The hair follicles then become smaller thus slowing down any new hair production. Due to the fact that the stem cells feeding the hair follicle with new cells are not targeted, the follicle is usually not permanently damaged and can eventually re-grow hair normally.

Although experts are unsure as to the exact reason why hair follicles go through these changes, it is suspected that it may be a combination of genes that can predispose certain people to this particular disease. Those who are predisposed to Alopecia areata may experience hair loss via certain triggers such as viruses, environmental factors or emotion. Any of these factors can be suspected for an attack against the hair follicles. Those people who have an immediate family relative with alopecia areata are also more at risk of developing the disease.

People who have a family member who have lost their first patch of hair before their thirties are, along with other family members,  at a greater risk of developing Alopecia areata. Scientists claim that one in five people who suffer Alopecia areata have a family member who also has the same problem.

Alopecia areata is thought to affect approximately 4 million in the US and usually begins in childhood. These numbers include people of all ages and both sexes, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds.

Alopecia areata is in no way life threatening and suffers are generally otherwise healthy. Although it does not cause physical pain, the disease can and does for many people dramatically affect their appearance causing them social and emotional disturbance.

However with Alopecia universalis all body hair falls out, a person loses their eyelashes, eyebrows, nasal and ear hair, etc.) the sufferer is more susceptible to germs, dust in the nose eyes and ears.

Although those who suffer from Alopecia areata generally do not have other autoimmune diseases, it can  be present in people whose family members suffer from other autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, systemic lupus, thyroid disease, pericious aneamis, erthematosus ad Addison’s disease. However, there is often a presence of thyroid disease nasal allergies, asthma, atopic eczema and asthma.

There is a very strong emotional aspect to living with hair loss and this is the most challenging part of the disease. By learning as much as possible about the disease and speaking with others who are either facing the same problem or who have experienced it in the past may help you cope with this conditon. 

Imagery works wonders.  Find a quiet place and see your scalp full of healthy hair and you must believe that the image you see is real.