Expert: Michael S. Fisher, <B>Ph.D., M.D.</B> - 8/2/2004

Question
I recently had a four-month allergic episode that involved very itchy skin.  I have since been diagnosed as being allergic to yeast, and the symptoms are gone.

But -- the part of my scalp near my face, ears, and neck was affected by the itch, and now it seems that as a result of scratching I lost hair.

It's been a month since all the itching stopped, but the hair isn't growing back and I'm getting worried... what can I do?

Answer
The hair should start growing back in 4-12 months.  You can use Rogaine on the area to help the hair grow back.  You should also have blood work to make sure there are no systemic causes for hair loss: thyroid disease, hormonal abnormalities, liver disease, kidney disease, systemic disease like lupus, genetic hair loss, medications, stress, recent surgeries or other stressors in your life.  Sorry I did not write sooner but had computer problems.