Hair Loss Articles:
- Alopecia Areata
- Alopecia
- Alopecia Androgenica and Woman
- Aromatherapy
- Hair Loss and Childbirth
- Hair Loss and Pregnancy
- Hair Surgery
- Indian Head Massage
- Hair Loss and Asthma/Eczema
- Hair Loss Types
- Monkey Message
- Minoxidil
- Philial
- Hair Loss and Pill
- Propecia
- PUVA
- Reiki
- Squill
- Steroids
- Thin Hair
- Thin Hair and Menopause
- Wig
Steroids by mouth
Sometimes patients with extensive loss of scalp hair are prescribed systemic steroids (taken by mouth), but these need to be carefully monitored by the dermatologist as possible side-effects include increased appetite and weight gain, plus, in long-term use, a greater susceptibility to high blood pressure, diabetes and brittle bone conditions.
Says consultant dermatologist Dr David Fenton: "I like to discuss with the patient the various treatment options available so that together we can decide which is most suitable. Systemic steroids in short bursts can control active alopecia - an episode of alopecia when it is really raging". He has also achieved regrowth using combination treatment - such as systemic steroids, such as prednisolone, Regaine (topical minoxidil) and zinc. This treatment has been successful even in cases of total hair loss.