How Do You Spell REFLEX ALOPECIA?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈiːflɛks ɐlə͡ʊpˈiːʃə] (IPA)

Reflex alopecia (/rɪˌflɛks ˌæləˈpiʃə/) is a condition in which an animal or human compulsively overgrooms themselves, leading to hair loss. The spelling of this word reflects the Latin origin of "reflex", which means bent back or turned away. The "al-" comes from the Greek "alopekia," which means fox-mange or fox fur disease. This condition can be caused by stress, boredom, anxiety, or medical conditions. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further hair loss.

REFLEX ALOPECIA Meaning and Definition

1. Reflex alopecia is a medical condition that refers to the temporary hair loss or thinning caused by repeated and prolonged manipulation or tension on the hair shaft. It is primarily triggered by habitual and excessive hair pulling, twisting, tugging, or stretching, resulting in the weakening of hair follicles and subsequent hair loss. This condition is commonly observed in individuals who engage in certain grooming practices such as tight hairstyles (e.g., braids, ponytails), the use of hair extensions or weaves, or excessive use of heat-styling tools, which can lead to substantial tension or stress on the hair.

   Reflex alopecia typically affects the hairline, temples, sides, or any area that experiences repeated tension. It is important to note that this type of hair loss is different from genetic or hormonal-related alopecia, as reflex alopecia is directly attributed to external mechanical manipulation.

   The condition often presents as a gradual thinning or widening of the affected areas rather than complete baldness. In most cases, once the tension on the hair is relieved and the harmful grooming practices are stopped, hair regrowth occurs within weeks to months. However, if the manipulation persists, chronic and irreversible hair loss may result.

   Treatment for reflex alopecia involves addressing the underlying cause by discontinuing the damaging hair habits and allowing the hair follicles to recover. Additionally, using gentle hair care practices, avoiding hairstyles that place excessive stress on the hair, and ensuring a healthy diet and proper hair care regimen can help promote hair regrowth and prevent further damage. In severe cases, medical intervention or consultation with a dermatologist may be necessary to explore potential treatment options.

2. Jacquet's disease.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for REFLEX ALOPECIA

• eeflex alopecia
• deflex alopecia
• feflex alopecia
• teflex alopecia
• 5eflex alopecia
• 4eflex alopecia
• rwflex alopecia
• rsflex alopecia
• rdflex alopecia
• rrflex alopecia
• r4flex alopecia
• r3flex alopecia
• redlex alopecia
• reclex alopecia
• revlex alopecia
• reglex alopecia
• retlex alopecia
• rerlex alopecia
• refkex alopecia
• refpex alopecia

Etymology of REFLEX ALOPECIA

The term "reflex alopecia" is composed of two main components - "reflex" and "alopecia".

1. "Reflex": The word "reflex" comes from the Latin word "reflexus", which means "backward movement" or "reflection". In the context of medicine, "reflex" refers to an involuntary or automatic response produced by the body in reaction to a stimulus.

2. "Alopecia": The term "alopecia" originates from the Greek word "alōpēkía", which means "mange" or "baldness". "Alōpēkía" itself was derived from "alōpēx", meaning "fox" - perhaps because foxes change their fur during certain seasons. "Alopecia" in medicine is used to describe hair loss or baldness.