Answered by SecondMedic Expert
Dermatologist · Dermatology
Here are five common hair diseases:
1. Alopecia Areata: This is a condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks your hair follicles, leading to hair loss in small, round patches on the scalp or other parts of the body. It can cause bald spots and, in severe cases, complete hair loss on the scalp (alopecia totalis) or entire body (alopecia universalis).
2. Dandruff: Dandruff is a common scalp condition marked by flaking and itching. It's often caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp, which leads to irritation and shedding of dead skin cells. While it's not serious, it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable.
3. Tinea Capitis (Ringworm of the Scalp): Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by a fungus. It's highly contagious and can cause hair loss, scaly patches, and itching on the scalp. It's more common in children but can affect adults too.
4. Trichotillomania: This is a psychological disorder where people have an irresistible urge to pull out their hair, often resulting in noticeable hair loss. It's often triggered by stress or anxiety and can lead to bald patches and uneven hair growth.
5. Telogen Effluvium: This is a condition where there's a significant shedding of hair from the scalp due to various reasons such as stress, hormonal changes, illness, or certain medications. It's usually temporary and the hair typically grows back once the underlying cause is addressed.
These hair diseases can vary in severity and impact, but seeking medical advice is important if you suspect you have any of them to get proper diagnosis and treatment.