Alopecia

Alopecia simply means hair loss. On its own the word does not tell you the cause, how much hair is affected or whether the loss is likely to be temporary or permanent. Doctors add a second word to describe the type, such as androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata or traction alopecia.

Some forms of alopecia are common and gradual, while others appear suddenly or affect the skin of the scalp itself. Because the causes are so varied, the right next step depends on the pattern of loss, how quickly it has happened and whether there are other symptoms.

If your hair loss is sudden, patchy, painful, itchy or inflamed, or if it comes with other symptoms such as tiredness or weight change, see your GP. They can arrange blood tests and, where needed, a referral to a dermatologist through the HSE in Ireland or the NHS in the UK.