Can stress cause alopecia?

Work stress is no fun and when you are stressed your body will respond. If you notice sudden or patchy hair loss or more than usual hair loss when combing or washing your hair, talk to your doctor. Alopecia areata is when the body's immune system attacks the hair follicles — causing hair loss.

Stress and hair loss don't have to be permanent. And if you get your stress under control, your hair might grow back.

Long-term, or chronic, stress puts people at risk for a variety of health problems. These can include hair loss.

Please be sure to talk with your doctor about any health concerns. I am not a doctor and cannot give diagnoses.