Understanding Autoimmune Diseases and Their Impact on Hair Loss

The human body is exposed to a wide range of potential disease-causing factors every day. Pollution, UV rays, various infections, toxins, and other factors can actively lead to multiple diseases. However, most of the time our body’s immune system actively fights against these potential disease-causing factors. However, when this immune system is affected by some diseases, it can destroy the body’s ability to fight against potential disease-causing factors. This affects many parts of the body, including the hair and sometimes results in hair loss. In this blog, let us discuss various autoimmune diseases and their impact on hair loss. We will also discuss various types of autoimmune diseases related to hair loss, diagnosis methods, various treatment options and their impact on the quality of life. 

Different types of autoimmune diseases that impact hair loss

There are various kinds of diseases that can lead to hair fall, without proper expert consultation these conditions may also lead to hair loss. Here are some of the most common diseases:

Alopecia areata

In this condition, people experience sudden hair loss specifically in patches. The immune system malfunctions and attacks the hair follicles thereby leading to hair shedding in the initial stages. In some advanced cases, this condition can also lead to total hair loss on the scalp known as alopecia totalis or even the entire body known as alopecia universalis. It is recommended to consult a professional hair expert for immediate and reliable solutions. 

Lupus 

Lupus also known as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, commonly called SLE is an autoimmune condition that leads to hair loss which is usually caused by inflammation of the scalp and the skin. This can also be triggered by certain medications and is characterized by patches that are sometimes accompanied by a rash.

Psoriasis

This is one of the most common and chronic autoimmune conditions that causes rapid skin cell turnover. Psoriasis is characterized by red and scaly patches on the skin that affect the scalp and lead to hair loss over time. This inflammation and scaling are persistent and that is why it is recommended to consult a hair specialist immediately.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is another most commonly faced condition that primarily affects the skin. However, this condition can also sometimes lead to hair depigmentation, when the immune system attacks the hair follicles. This disrupts the production of melanin and leads to premature graying, one of the most common challenges faced by youth and adults today. 

Mechanisms of hair loss

Immune response: The immune system produces various antibodies that attack the body’s own cells during the autoimmune disease transition period. For example, in alopecia areata, lymphocytes penetrate hair follicles and disrupt their functioning leading to hair loss. 

Inflammation: Some autoimmune diseases cause inflammation that weakens the hair follicles and disrupts the hair growth cycle. This can be noticed in conditions like lupus and psoriasis, where inflammation leads to hair shedding in the initial days and eventually hair loss.

Hormonal changes: Autoimmune disorders also affect the hormonal balance of the body. These conditions disrupt the production of hormones and lead to hair loss and can be noticed in conditions like thyroid. 

Medications: Some treatments for autoimmune diseases like corticosteroids and immunosuppressants involve using various drugs. These drugs might have some side effects that can lead to hair loss. 

Diagnosis of autoimmune diseases

Now that we have understood everything about autoimmune disorders and their impact on hair loss, let us discuss various diagnosis processes that can help analyze hair loss. Doctors conduct various tests to accurately find the condition and its root causes, here are most common diagnosis techniques used by doctors: 

Medical History: Involves discussing symptoms and any family history of autoimmune diseases.

Physical Examination: Involves assessing the previous pattern and intensity of hair loss.

Blood Tests: Involves checking the blood for various  autoimmune diseases, thyroid function, and other relevant factors.

Scalp Biopsy: In some advanced cases, a small sample of scalp tissue may be examined by the doctors to understand the underlying cause of hair loss.

Treatment options 

There are various treatment options available in the market to treat these conditions. However, it is recommended to consult an expert hair specialist to help you analyze the condition and offer relevant treatment options. Here are various treatment options: 

Topical treatments: Based on the conditions, doctors may prescribe topical solutions that can be applied on the skin or scalp. One of the most commonly prescribed drugs is minoxidil to treat various types of hair loss. 

Lifestyle changes: Upon detailed analysis and diagnosis, doctors offer various lifestyle modifications that can help regulate the hair loss. This includes stress management, diet management, and proper daily hair care regime to support the overall hair health from the roots.

Immunotherapy: For conditions like alopecia areata, doctors prescribe injectable immunotherapy. These drugs stimulate the hair regrowth by modifying the immune response and supporting the hair health.

Corticosteroids: These steroids help in regulating the inflammation and suppressing the immune response that leads to hair loss. Consult an expert hair doctor to ensure effective treatment solutions.

Conclusion 

All in all, hair loss caused due to these autoimmune diseases can have a profound impact on a person’s psychological, physical, and emotional well being. Understanding these diseases and their connection to hair loss can help in effectively managing the overall well being. It is highly recommended to consult a hair care profession for early diagnosis and treatment, as these are the two of the most effective management solutions for these conditions. For effective and reliable diagnosis and hair treatment solutions in Bangalore, consult Dr. Health Clinic. We are group of highly experienced doctors who specialize in addressing various autoimmune disorders and hair loss conditions associated with them.