I'm 21 and I got a bald spot on my head overnight! help!

[jameslim25]

Okay, so I've had a full head of hair my entire life with no problems of hair loss what so ever. But one night I go to sleep and a bald spot pops up! At first it was the size of a dime, and it is gradually getting bigger. I see red bumps around the bald spot also. Can someone please clear this up for me? I'm very concerned. I've posted a picture of the bald spot. And if you can identify it, can you please tell me the procedure of taking care of it? thanks!!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to contact dermatitis or tinea capitis. The symptoms of Ringworm or Tinea Capitis include a dry itchy scalp, scaling, crusting, inflamed nodules, hair loss and tender enlarged lymph nodes on the neck. My sincere advice is to get it evaluated from a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[jameslim25]

I think the rash might have came before. So I thought it was tinea capitas but after using shampoo with selenium sulfide it has not improved the least bit. I looked up Alopecia Areata but the problem is that the bald spot hurts. I'm just stumped now.

[BeeFree]

Hmm. My question is if the rash came before or after the bald spot appeared. Usually rashes on the scalp indicate some sort of fungal infection which can contribute to hair loss. They are quite common and treatable.
Another thought I had was Alopecia areata. I suggest googling it to see if the signs/symptoms match.

And don't worry-- Alopecia areata is not life-threatening.

All the best,
Brittany