Alopecia areata usually appears as sudden, smooth round patches of hair loss. It is not caused by poor hygiene or shampoo. Many patches regrow, but early assessment helps judge activity, extent and treatment options.
Symptoms & signs
Patients usually notice:
One or more smooth round bald patches
Sudden hair loss without much scaling
Short broken or tapering hairs at the edge
Occasional nail pits or more extensive hair loss
What Dr. Maharania checks
Number, size and activity of patches.
Nails, eyebrows, beard and other body hair if relevant.
Associated thyroid/autoimmune clues when history suggests them.
Treatment approach
Treatment depends on patch size, location and activity. Small patches may be treated locally. Extensive or fast-spreading disease needs closer follow-up and different options. The aim is to encourage regrowth while being honest about recurrence risk.
What to expect
1
Confirm the pattern
The patch edge, scalp surface and broken hairs are examined.
2
Assess activity
New patches or expanding edges need a different pace of treatment.
3
Choose local or wider treatment
Small patches and extensive disease are not managed the same way.
4
Monitor regrowth
Fine new hair may appear first; recurrence can happen and should be reviewed early.
Frequently asked questions
Is alopecia areata contagious?+
No. It is an immune-related condition and does not spread by touch.
Will the patch regrow?+
Many small patches regrow, but timing varies. Extent and activity affect the outlook.
Do I need tests?+
Not always. Tests are considered when there are thyroid symptoms, extensive disease or other clinical clues.
Should I come in person?+
Yes for first assessment, especially for children, rapidly spreading patches, eyebrow/beard involvement or multiple patches.
