Exactly four weeks ago I saw a bald spot on my head. I had some friends check my head, panicked slightly, and then found another. I thought it was strange and made a quick appointment at a dermatologist office. Going to the doctor is something I never do. I was diagnosed with alopecia, probably stress related, given a couple shots of cortisone and went on my way.
A week later more and more hair fell out, ridiculous amounts of hair. I called other doctors, more appointments, blood work all normal. Hair loss is not a symptom.
Finally my gynecologist recommended I go to Northwestern--great move. From there I have met with a team of competent and caring doctors which was a great relief. They diagnosed me with Alopecia Areata, an autoimmune disorder where the body mysteriously attacks its own hair follicles. Its sometimes triggered by stress but otherwise the origins of the disease is unknown and there is no cure--only treatment(Awesome!)
Within the last few weeks my scalp has gone through a severe transformation. I chopped my hair short (something I have been flirting with anyway) and now I sit and watch patiently for signs of improvement. I have run the gamut of emotions from Why me to Fuck it it's only hair and I believe I am about to experience a lot more.
This blog serves to document my journey, aggregate information about the disease for my friends and family, and help me remember to live a more thankful, joyful and appreciative life. After all, I have so much to be thankful for but it took a health scare which prompted me to take a more pro-active approach to enjoying my life.
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2 comments:
wow, dana. just wanted you to know that you're in my thoughts. though it must be hard, it seems helpful that you're trying to be positive and have a sense of humor about everything. best of luck.
Dana,
Oh by the way I so love the name, foxxy alopecia. Nikki-D
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