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Permalink Reply by Phyllis Wallace on March 22, 2013 at 10:53am

Hello Erin. I was diagnosed with AA a few years ago. Like you,I experienced intense burning in my scalp on a daily basis for months and months. For me, the clobetasol did not relieve the pain and the steroids did not alleviate it either. Over time, I realized there was a connection between the intensity of my symptoms and what I was eating. I made changes to my diet and now I control my symptoms rather than them controlling me. I have adopted an anti-inflammatory diet, including going gluten-free and being primarily plant-based. It takes patience though. The other thing that help me deal with the burning patches is using a "counter-irritant". I applied capsaicin cream (using a q-tip) to my hot spots. I did this once a day for a couple of weeks at most. The cream makes the spots burn but, they are burning anyway. Within a week or two, the spots calm down. I also found that using the cream helped prevent my patches from getting any bigger. You may want to explore the group "Natural Cures for Alopecia" (I'm not positive that is the exact name). I am a big proponent of natural remedies versus drugs. Hopefully, you find this information useful.
Take care,
Phyllis

Permalink Reply by Erin on March 22, 2013 at 5:36pm

That sounds like a good idea! I definitely need an anti-inflammatory diet. It's funny you should mention the capsaicin cream. My husband just brought some to me today! The burning seems to be in the afternoons like clock work along with a head ache. Before being on steroids, I would also needs dry long nap in the afternoons. I'm going to look up natural remedies. Thanks for your reply and your help!