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Hair Loss - Contagious?

Hair Loss

To the relief of many, hair loss, scientifically known as alopecia, is rarely ever contagious. The only exception for this if it is caused by ringworm, also known as "Tinea", a fungal infection of the skin that feeds on keratin, found in the outer layer of hair, skin, and nails. If this ringworm is located in the scalp, then there are patchy hair losses in the infected area of the scalp.

Tinea Capitis, or scalp ringworm is marked by many symptoms, most common in children ages 2 to 10. There is usually a red scaly rash on the portion of the scalp where the hair loss occurs. The area is also often itchy in periods of time.

If infected, there is less worry since it is very treatable. The initial actions are keeping the area clean, use medicated shampoos such as those containing selenium sulfide to reduce the spread of infection. Oral antifungal medications may also be prescribed by your dermatologist.

There is another possibility, as some notice hair loss within the family. There are some forms of alopecia that have hereditary factors, so this is also to be considered. For example, those who develop alopecia areata at the age under 35 years have more possibility of having other family members also having this type of hair loss.

Considering both factors that may cause hair loss for you, and people close to you, it is safe to assume that there is very little to fuss about. First, Tinea Capitis is not very easily caught, unless certain hygiene habits are not observed, such as sharing of towels, or sheets. Second, the hereditary ratio of alopecia areata is quite low. In one out of give persons who have it, there is another family member who also has it. It usually occurs in families that have had asthma, hay fever, atopic eczema, or other autoimmune diseases such as thyroid disease, early-onset diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, vitiligo, pernicious anemia, or Addison's disease.

To know more about the causes of hair loss, and treatments for hair loss read our articles and hair loss treatment reviews.