Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that leads to hair loss.
Just like all other autoimmune diseases- you didn't ASK for it. You didn't bring it on yourself. Your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body. Other examples include type 1 diabetes, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
With alopecia areata, your body attacks your hair follicles, causing your hair to fall out.
This can occur at any age and is seemingly more common in those with a family history of alopecia areata.
Others that might be more likely to develop alopecia areata include those with a history of asthma, seasonal allergies, psoriasis, thyroid disease, or vitiligo.
Unfortunately, there is no cure, but treatment options are available.