Hey Guys

I am new to Alopecia world. In about March this year I noticed my hair fall out quite suddenly, I was in the bathroom blow drying my hair and noticed a lighter part on my head which happened to be a bald spot. I seriously freaked out in tears, I didn't know what it was and how it occurred. I've never noticed chunks of hair disappear, only a bit of molting on the bathroom floor.

Anyhow, the next day I went to the doctor as devastated as I was and he confirmed I had Alopecia Areata, I had never heard of this medical condition before.

He referred me to see a dermatologist which I had been to see. First my dermatologist prescribed me with an ointment gel to use however I unfortunately didn't notice results. About 2 weeks ago he gave me cortisone injections to induce hair growth. Prior to that I had noticed some hair around the edges of my scalp grow back so I'm just trying to stay positive.

From March to now I had noticed the patch grew on top of my head however I haven't notice any more growth since then and I hope it stops. I have a few other 5 cent coin shaped bald spot around my head and I can luckily hide them. I was so stressed to the point I was giving myself anxiety, stress over it I also haven't been at work for the past 2 weeks because trying to solve my condition is more important to me.

I have done a few things to help me relax, talking to friend you trust and feel comfortable with is a good start. My sister in law has given me hair follicle powder, and a hair stimulant spray plus she has organize an order for a hair piece for me. Luckily a lady from Beverly May was around the area and fitted one for me. In the unfortunate occasion I am worried the patch will expand (it's about the side of a grapefruit) but I'm also trying to be optimistic about it. My managers at work know what's going on however I don't think they understand the severity of it.

I know this sounds bad but I am afraid of being judged if it gets worse, I have always had thick long hair and this condition hasn't run in the family. I look at photos of me and it makes me upset. As a woman I think we rely on our hair as it demonstrates a reflection on who I am as such. They say it's not physically damaging but it surely is emotionally damaging that can imply on how you feel, your health, diet etc. I am a fit person and I love to train and eat clean however since I noticed the severity of my condition that all went down hill.

I was thinking the worst case scenario such as getting hair implants, wigs and all that. However I believe thinking like that won't get you far.

I wanted to ask you what you all think, is cortisone injections a waste of money if they initially work? I've seen how people have written that once your off them, your hair will fall out.

Secondly I've been recommended to see a tricologist? Has anyone seen one and/or know if they help much more than a dermatologist. I have heard they can assist to identify to underlying cause of AA.