Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss, encompassing many different conditions that can result in thinning, balding or lost hair. From genetic and hormonal causes to autoimmune dysfunction and nutritional deficiencies, there are many causes and types of alopecia. At Precision Medical Specialists, our dermatologist Dr. Katherine Chiang is an alopecia and hair loss specialist. If you are exploring options for hair loss treatment, Dr. Chiang offers comprehensive treatment plans at our medical facility in Wellington, FL.
Causes and Types of Alopecia
Individuals of all ages and genders can experience hair loss, or alopecia, impacting their appearance and self-confidence. There are different types of alopecia that are caused by various factors. Some of the most common types of alopecia include:
- Androgenic alopecia (AGA) – One of the most common causes of hair loss, androgenic alopecia, or pattern baldness, is caused by a combination of genetics and hormone changes. AGA can affect both men and women. It is treated with prescription shampoos, low-level laser light therapy, injections and oral medications.
- Alopecia areata (AA) – Alopecia areata can cause hair loss in patches and usually affects children and adolescents. AA is thought to be caused by an autoimmune disorder, and hair loss is reversible. It is treated with injections, creams and in some severe cases, oral medications.
- Telogen effluvium (TE) – Stress, malnutrition, severe illness, childbirth and significant weight loss can trigger a severe months-long shedding of hair. The hair loss is usually reversible, but in some patients can be chronic. Seeing a hair loss specialist like Dr. Chiang can help identify chronic causes that prevent a quick recovery from this hair shedding episode.
There are other types and causes of alopecia – there can be multiple causes that contribute to the condition. For effective treatment, Dr. Chiang performs a thorough examination, medical history and may request laboratory tests to determine cause of alopecia for an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
The treatment plan Dr. Chiang will recommend depends on the type of alopecia and your personal condition. Treatments can include nutritional supplements, PRP therapy, oral/topical medications, light therapies and treatment shampoos/conditioners. The right combination of treatments will stimulate new hair growth for many people with certain types of alopecia or prevent further hair loss for those with irreversible alopecia.
You do not need to accept hair loss. There are effective alopecia or hair loss treatments available without surgery. To explore your hair loss treatment options, contact us at Precision Medical Specialists to schedule an alopecia consultation with Dr. Chiang, our alopecia dermatologist. Call us at our facility near West Palm Beach in Florida to book your appointment.