Treatable Conditions

Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern hair loss, is a common form of hair loss that occurs due to a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. It affects both men and women and is characterized by a gradual thinning of hair on the scalp, usually starting at the crown or hairline and progressing over time.

In men, androgenetic alopecia typically results in a receding hairline and  thinning on the top of the head, while in women it typically leads to a widening of the part line and overall thinning of the hair. Androgenetic alopecia is caused by the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a derivative of testosterone. DHT binds to hair follicles, causing them to shrink and produce weaker, shorter hair until they eventually stop producing hair altogether.

Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the telogen or resting phase of the hair growth cycle at the same time, causing them to shed more hair than usual. It is a temporary condition that typically occurs after a physical or emotional stressor, such as surgery, childbirth, an illness, or a  change in hormonal levels.

Telogen effluvium can also occur as a result of certain medications, nutritional deficiencies,emotional distress or other underlying health conditions. 

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that results in hair loss on the scalp and  at times , other parts of the body. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. The condition can occur at any age, and affects both men and women equally.

Alopecia areata typically presents as round or oval patches of hair loss on the scalp, but it can also affect other areas of the body, such as the eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, and pubic hair. In some cases, the hair loss may progress to total baldness on the scalp or even throughout the body, a condition known as alopecia universalis.

The exact cause of alopecia areata is unknown, but it is thought to be related to genetic and environmental factors. There is no cure for alopecia areata, but treatment options include medications to suppress the immune system, topical medications to promote hair growth, and light therapy. In some cases, hair regrowth may occur on its own without treatment.

Trichotillomania, also known as trichotillosis, is a disorder characterized by the recurrent urge to pull out one's own hair, resulting in noticeable hair loss and distress. It is classified as an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and is considered a type of body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB).

Trichotillomania typically involves the repeated pulling of hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other parts of the body, often resulting in bald patches or uneven hair growth. People with trichotillomania may experience tension or anxiety before pulling their hair, and may feel a sense of relief or pleasure after doing so. They may also engage in other repetitive behaviors related to hair pulling, such as twirling or biting the hair.

It is often treated with a combination of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or habit reversal therapy (HRT), and medication, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication.

Cicatricial alopecia, also known as scarring alopecia, is a type of hair loss that occurs when hair follicles are destroyed and replaced with scar tissue. This can lead to permanent hair loss in the affected areas. Cicatricial alopecia can affect both men and women of all ages and ethnicities.

Cicatricial alopecia can be caused by a variety of factors, including autoimmune disorders, bacterial or fungal infections, physical trauma, and certain medications. Symptoms may include itching, burning, and pain in the affected area, as well as visible scarring and hair loss.

Diagnosis of cicatricial alopecia typically involves a scalp biopsy to examine the affected tissue. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the condition and may include medications to suppress the immune system, antibiotics or antifungal medications, and topical or oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. In some cases, surgical interventions such as hair transplant or scalp reduction may be recommended.

It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you experience symptoms of cicatricial alopecia, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further hair loss and scarring.

Changes in the quality of hair can occur due to a variety of factors such as aging, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, environmental factors, medical conditions, and genetics. As we age, the texture and thickness of our hair can change, becoming thinner, drier, and more prone to breakage. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, can also cause changes in the quality of hair, which may become thinner, drier, or more prone to breakage. Nutritional deficiencies, exposure to environmental factors, and certain medical conditions can also impact the quality of hair. Maintaining a healthy diet, protecting hair from environmental damage, and using gentle styling products and techniques can help promote healthy hair.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes red, scaly patches and dandruff on the scalp, face, and other areas of the body with a high concentration of oil glands. It can affect people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. The condition is thought to be caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, which leads to inflammation and excessive oil production.

Seborrheic dermatitis typically presents as red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales. It can also cause itching, burning, and soreness in the affected areas. The condition may come and go over time, and can be exacerbated by stress, changes in weather, and certain medications.

Treatment for seborrheic dermatitis may include medicated shampoos and topical creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and yeast growth. In more severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed. It is important to avoid using harsh soaps and other products that can irritate the skin, and to avoid scratching or picking at affected areas.

Pityriasis capitis, also known as dandruff, is a common scalp condition that affects many people. It is characterized by the shedding of skin cells from the scalp, which can result in the appearance of white flakes on the hair and clothing. Dandruff is not a serious condition, but it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable for those who experience it.

The exact cause of dandruff is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the overgrowth of a type of yeast called Malassezia on the scalp. Other factors that may contribute to the development of dandruff include stress, certain medications, and a weakened immune system.

Symptoms of dandruff may include dry or greasy patches on the scalp, itching, and the appearance of white or yellowish flakes on the hair and clothing.

Treatment for dandruff typically involves the use of specialized shampoos that contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, or ketoconazole. These ingredients can help to reduce the growth of yeast on the scalp and improve the overall health of the scalp and hair. In addition to using medicated shampoos, it is important to practice good scalp hygiene, avoid using harsh styling products, and eat a healthy diet to promote healthy hair growth.

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Pityriasis amiantacea is a rare scalp condition characterized by the formation of thick, adherent, silvery-white  and yellow scales on the scalp. It is often associated with an underlying scalp conditions, such as seborrheic dermatitis. The condition is more common in females than males and typically occurs in children and young adults.

Symptoms of pityriasis amiantacea may include itching, scaling, and redness on the scalp. The thick, silver-white and yellow scales can make it difficult to brush or comb the hair. 

The exact cause of pityriasis amiantacea is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal immune response that causes the scalp to produce excess skin cells. Other factors that may contribute to the development of the condition include stress, hormonal changes, and certain medications.

Treatment for pityriasis amiantacea typically involves the use of medicated shampoos and topical creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and scale production on the scalp. In severe cases, oral medications or phototherapy may be prescribed. It is important to avoid using harsh styling products or scratching the affected areas, as this can exacerbate the condition.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, nails, and joints. In milder cases, psoriasis typically presents as raised, red patches of skin covered with silver or white scales. These patches may appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.

The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal immune response that causes skin cells to grow too quickly. This leads to the formation of thick, scaly patches on the skin that can be itchy and uncomfortable.

Milder cases of psoriasis can usually be managed with topical treatments such as corticosteroid creams, vitamin D analogues, and retinoids. These medications work by reducing inflammation and slowing down the growth of skin cells. It is also important to keep the skin moisturized and avoid triggers such as stress, cold weather, and certain medications.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. In milder cases, eczema typically presents as small patches of dry, scaly skin that may be red or brownish in color. These patches may appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the hands, feet, face, and behind the knees.

The exact cause of eczema is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with eczema have a weakened skin barrier, which makes it harder for the skin to retain moisture and protect against irritants and allergens. This can lead to dry, itchy skin that is prone to inflammation and infection.

Milder cases of eczema can usually be managed with topical treatments such as emollients, corticosteroid creams, and calcineurin inhibitors. These medications work by reducing inflammation and itching and helping to repair the skin barrier. It is also important to avoid triggers such as stress, certain foods, and harsh soaps or detergents.

Changes in the scalp can refer to any physical or visible alterations that occur on the skin of the scalp. These changes can be caused by a variety of factors, including skin conditions, hormonal changes, medications, and lifestyle factors.

Common changes in the scalp include redness, itching, flaking, scaling, and hair loss. These symptoms may be indicative of scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or alopecia. Other changes in the scalp may include lumps or bumps, which could be caused by infections, cysts, or tumors.

Changes in the scalp can also be caused by hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause. In these cases, the scalp may become more dry, itchy, or prone to dandruff.

Certain medications or medical treatments may also cause changes in the scalp. For example, chemotherapy drugs may cause hair loss or scalp irritation, while topical medications may cause dryness, flaking, or itching.

Lifestyle factors, such as poor nutrition or hygiene, can also contribute to changes in the scalp. A diet that is deficient in certain vitamins or minerals may cause dryness or flaking of the scalp, while poor hygiene can lead to the development of bacterial or fungal infections.