Alopecia Treatment in San Antonio, TX
What is Alopecia AREATA?
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its hair follicles, causing hair loss in patches anywhere on the body. The hair follicles are still alive, and the hair can regrow at any time. Hair loss is unpredictable and may regrow without treatment. Most people develop alopecia areata in their childhood or teenage years but can develop it at any age. All races and genders can develop it as well. The cause remains unknown, and scientists aren’t sure exactly what triggers the immune system to attack the healthy hair follicles. They believe that multiple factors working together, such as genetic and environmental, are needed to set it off.
What are the symptoms of Alopecia?
There are many symptoms of Alopecia, including:
- Patchy hair loss (not necessarily permanent)
- Rough or pitting fingernails/toenails Thinning hair follicle roots
- Social anxiety and stress
How Much Does Treatment Cost?
The cost of treatment varies because each patient has unique needs. We can discuss treatment options during your consultation appointment. Financing through CareCredit® may be available to give you options for affordable monthly payments.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Alopecia
Alopecia is diagnosed by a visual exam of the affected areas. Your doctor may gently pull at the hair in the area to see if it easily comes out or may need to do a biopsy to confirm. Treatments for alopecia depend on severity and type. It is important to remember that no medicine can stop new hair loss from occurring. Treatments are aimed at slowing down future hair loss and helping hair regrow more quickly. Below are the different treatment types listed with some examples:
- Topical – Minoxidil (Rogaine), Anthralin (Dritho-Scalp), and corticosteroid creams such as clobetasol (Impoyz).
- Injection – Steroid injections where tiny needles inject the steroid into the bare skin of the affected areas.
- Oral – Cortisone tablets, and oral immunosuppressants.
- Light Therapy – Type of radiation treatment that uses a combination of an oral medication called psoralens and UV light.
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Several new potential treatments for alopecia areata are on the horizon through clinical trials. Through clinical trials, safe and effective drugs, therapies, and ultimately, a cure for alopecia areata will be discovered. When you participate in a clinical trial, you play an essential role in the fight to treat and cure alopecia areata.
How Do I Find Alopecia Treatment Doctors Near Me?
Dr. John Browning is board certified in pediatrics, dermatology and pediatric dermatology. He leads a team of expert dermatology practitioners who work with patients of all ages in San Antonio, Boerne, New Braunfels, Kenedy, and surrounding areas of Texas, including children, adolescents, and adults. You and your family deserve exceptional care for acne treatment, so contact us today to schedule a consultation at our office in Alamo Heights, Dominion, Mission Trail, New Braunfels, and Kenedy.
