Help for the balding male

Help for the balding male

Dear Dr Williams-Green,

I read your article in The Gleaner's Health section titled 'Help for the balding male'. The section of the article where you wrote about alopecia relates to me. I am a 36-year-old female with alopecia universalis. I developed this affliction about five years now. I started treatment at a dermatologist about a year or two ago but didn't like the side effects of the medication, so I stopped it.

Last year, I went to a trichologist and did some blood tests to rule out certain things. I don't have any of the major illnesses associated with alopecia. It seems mine was just stress related; however, I am wondering if my thyroid would have a role in this.

I have tried to de-stress, used various rubs, etc, but only a few strands of hair are on my head. My eyebrows and lashes are scanty, but that's fine. I really am tired of wearing wigs. Is there anyone that you can recommend me to in order to get some treatment for the hair to grow back and hold on to my head, specifically? Need help.

- Claudine

Dear Reader,

I can feel the stress of such an ailment. I would recommend the dermatologists at the University Hospital or at the National Chest Hospital (for the government dermatologists). I would suggest that you see your GP for a referral. Meanwhile, baldness is in vogue, as well as wigs for variation. I would suggest that you focus on your overall health and not just de-stressing. Rest, relaxation, romance, prayer, meditation, physical activity, eating healthy, and purpose in your life are all important elements.

Best wishes.

- Dr Pauline Williams-Green

Send questions and comments to our health specialists at Your Health, c/o The Gleaner, 7 North Street, Kingston; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com. Unless otherwise indicated, letters and the specialists' responses are usually published.