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Rheumatology
The board-certified rheumatologists at Renown Rheumatology provide state-of-the art care for a wide range of autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, Sjogren syndrome, vasculitis, gout, and many more. We use the most advanced evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic measures to restore health and enhance well-being.
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Why Is My Hair Falling Out? Alopecia Explained
Hair is often considered a symbol of identity and self-expression, from scalps and eyebrows to beards and bodies. But what happens when this symbol starts to fall out? The 6.7 million people across the country living with alopecia know this feeling all too well. Alopecia, or hair loss, is a medical condition with variable causes, presentations and treatments. Experts at Renown Health dive into the world of alopecia, its causes and how to address it – especially as we embrace National Alopecia Awareness Month this September. Types of Alopecia The term “alopecia” is a broad umbrella term that encompasses many different forms of hair loss that can present itself at any age, no matter your gender or ethnicity. The most common types include: Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune disorder where the immune system targets hair follicles, typically resulting in patches of hair loss on the scalp and/or other body parts. More severe forms of alopecia areata also exist, such as alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis. Androgenetic (or Androgenic) Alopecia: A disorder also known as male or female pattern baldness that causes gradual hair thinning and loss often around the temples and crown. Unlike alopecia areata, this form of alopecia is usually hereditary. Telogen Effluvium: A condition resulting in hair shedding, typically after high-stress or infectious events, such as after giving birth or after a COVID-19 infection. This usually resolves itself within a few months to a year. Traction Alopecia: Hair loss resulting from the effects of tight braiding or styling of the hair, which can cause permanent loss over time. Scarring and Inflammation-Mediated Hair Loss: Patterns of hair loss related to lupus, lichen planus or other autoimmune conditions that can unfortunately be permanent and progressive. Options to Treat Alopecia While there isn’t a cure for most types of alopecia, some treatments are available to help minimize the effects of the condition and promote hair growth. Treatment varies depending on the type of alopecia. Potential options can include: Topical Minoxidil: An FDA-approved over-the-counter medication available in foam or liquid form and applied directly to the scalp, which helps stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles. Hormone Therapies: A hormone regimen that can help minimize the resulting hair thinning and balding. Corticosteroids: A topical cream or ointment – or an injection for severe cases – that help reduce inflammation and re-grow hair. Low-Level Laser Therapy: A therapeutic, non-invasive intervention involving wearing special caps or combs that release painless, low-level lasers to stimulate hair follicles. Healthy Diets and Nutritional Supplements: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for hair health, such as biotin and collagen, can aid in recovery. Vitamin D and iron are also important hair growth nutrients. Stress Management: Stress can impact the speed and frequency of hair loss. Managing your stress can help mitigate the effects of alopecia. Treatment for alopecia is not a one-size-fits-all approach. A scalp skin biopsy may help determine a cause for hair loss and help guide the best management strategies with your provider. Addressing the Emotional Impacts Even though alopecia isn’t life-threatening, the impacts of the condition can affect your self-esteem and self-image. The most powerful tool to help you manage alopecia is knowledge. Keeping yourself educated about your condition, and encouraging your loved ones to do the same, can help arm yourself with the acceptance and self-compassion you need and help combat misconceptions. With the rise in awareness in the mainstream media for alopecia and other hair conditions, beauty standards and fashion are shifting to become more inclusive for those experiencing hair loss. Celebrating the many diverse hairstyles and fashion statements can help you regain your confidence. There are many options you can advantage of to help style your hair and protect your scalp: Hairpieces: Wigs, extensions and other hairpieces can help cover up balding or thinning patches and add volume to your hair. Hairpieces have come a long way in the past few decades, and many use real human hair. Hats: Hats serve a dual purpose – a fun fashion accessory to help boost your confidence and a method of protecting your scalp from the sun. As someone with alopecia, your scalp is more exposed, and hats can provide that extra layer of protection you need. Scalp Sunscreens: While regular body sunscreens can provide good scalp sun protection, they can result in oily scalp and hair appearance. Sunscreens that are specifically designed for the scalp are available at most beauty stores or online. Remember, patience is fundamental, as many treatments require consistent use over time to see noticeable results. Stay resilient, and don’t give up – you are not alone in your alopecia journey.
Read More About Why Is My Hair Falling Out? Alopecia Explained
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3Dec
Renown Institute for Cancer is teaming up with Renie Anderson, a trained and certified expert in cancer treatment side effect management. Attend this workshop in person at Renown Regional or virtually via Zoom to learn mind-body techniques to help you feel more connected and joyful in life as you move beyond cancer. This workshop includes: Emphasizing the importance of identifying resistance. Moving through resistance by understanding the concepts of acceptance and surrender. Identifying goals and visions. Creating action steps to help break patterns, to help you stay in a healthier mindset and feel more calm. There is no charge to attend this class. Video enabled attendance is available. Patients can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device. To receive the Zoom link to connect to this workshop, please email Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net
Read More About Journey Beyond Your Cancer: Thrivorship Workshop
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4Dec
This support group provides support, education, networking, and resource materials to caregivers coping with a loved one diagnosed with cancer. In effort to provide the most supportive atmosphere for those caring for loved one dealing with cancer, this group is for current cancer caregivers only. If you have lost a loved one to cancer, there are these groups available for support: Grief Support Groups in Reno If you have cancer, Renown offers the following support groups: Cancer Support Group Men’s Prostate Cancer Support Group Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Orientation Class Lymphedema Education & Risk Reduction Class * Virtual attendance is available. Link will be sent one day before meeting to email provided on registration.
Read More About Cancer Caregiver Support Group
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5Dec
This group is for all patients facing cancer. The meeting enables participants to share experiences and express feelings and concerns. All cancer patients, family members, survivors, and caregivers are welcome to attend. Meets weekly on Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in person and virtually. For directions to Sierra Cafe 104, please use the following link: Campus and Parking Maps | Renown Health Click on the “Renown Regional Medical Center Visitor Guide” to download the PDF map. Sierra Cafe 104 is located on the 1st Floor of the Sierra Tower past the gift shop on the right as you enter the Sierra Cafe. Video enabled attendance available. You can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device (smart phone, iPad, laptop, or webcam/desktop). A virtual invitation with instructions on how to connect will be sent via email the Wednesday before the meeting.
Read More About Cancer Support Group
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31Oct
This group is for all patients facing cancer. The meeting enables participants to share experiences and express feelings and concerns. All cancer patients, family members, survivors, and caregivers are welcome to attend. Meets weekly on Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in person and virtually. For directions to Sierra Cafe 104, please use the following link: Campus and Parking Maps | Renown Health Click on the “Renown Regional Medical Center Visitor Guide” to download the PDF map. Sierra Cafe 104 is located on the 1st Floor of the Sierra Tower past the gift shop on the right as you enter the Sierra Cafe. Video enabled attendance available. You can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device (smart phone, iPad, laptop, or webcam/desktop). A virtual invitation with instructions on how to connect will be sent via email the Wednesday before the meeting.
Read More About Cancer Support Group
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11Nov
Renown Institute for Cancer is teaming up with Renie Anderson, a trained and certified expert in cancer treatment side effect management. Attend this workshop in person at Renown Regional or virtually via Zoom to learn mind-body techniques to help reduce stress and fears while caring for your loved one going through treatment. There is relief in knowing you are not alone. This workshop includes: Identifying and talking about fears, resistance and frustrations. Creating end results to help them re-frame the discussion. Learning tools to help identify needs and wants; being able to ask for them so you can refuel and become more available to yourself and your loved ones for the long haul. Learning about the available options. There is no charge to attend this class. Video enabled attendance is available. Patients can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device. To receive the Zoom link to connect to this workshop, please email Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net
Read More About Journey Through Your Cancer and Beyond: Caregiver Workshop
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29May
This support group provides support, education, networking, and resource materials to caregivers coping with a loved one diagnosed with cancer. In effort to provide the most supportive atmosphere for those caring for loved one dealing with cancer, this group is for current cancer caregivers only. If you have lost a loved one to cancer, there are these groups available for support: Grief Support Groups in Reno If you have cancer, Renown offers the following support groups: Cancer Support Group Men’s Prostate Cancer Support Group Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Orientation Class Lymphedema Education & Risk Reduction Class *Virtual attendance is available. Link is sent one day before the meeting to email provided on registration.
Read More About Cancer Caregiver Support Group
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8May
This class is for anyone who has undergone or is undergoing breast cancer treatment and will focus on lymphedema education and reducing the risk of its occurrence. During the class, we will review the basic anatomy of the lymphatic system and define common procedures performed during the treatment course for breast cancer that affects lymphatics. Risk reduction strategies, including compression sleeves, will be reviewed in addition to the typical presentation of early lymphedema. Finally, a brief description of Axillary Web Syndrome will also be reviewed, and basic stretches/exercises to implement if cording is present.
Read More About Lymphedema Education and Risk Reduction Class
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1Oct
Renown Institute for Cancer is teaming up with Renie Anderson, a trained and certified expert in cancer treatment side effect management. Attend this workshop in person at Renown Regional or virtually via Zoom to learn mind-body techniques to help you feel more connected and joyful in life as you move beyond cancer. This workshop includes: Emphasizing the importance of identifying resistance. Moving through resistance by understanding the concepts of acceptance and surrender. Identifying goals and visions. Creating action steps to help break patterns, to help you stay in a healthier mindset and feel more calm. There is no charge to attend this class. Video enabled attendance is available. Patients can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device. To receive the Zoom link to connect to this workshop, please email Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net
Read More About Cancer Support Virtual Workshop 3: Thrivorship – After Cancer Care
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1Oct
Renown Institute for Cancer is teaming up with Renie Anderson, a trained and certified expert in cancer treatment side effect management. Attend this workshop in person at Renown Regional or virtually via Zoom to learn mind-body techniques to help you feel more connected and joyful in life as you move beyond cancer. This workshop includes: Emphasizing the importance of identifying resistance. Moving through resistance by understanding the concepts of acceptance and surrender. Identifying goals and visions. Creating action steps to help break patterns, to help you stay in a healthier mindset and feel more calm. There is no charge to attend this class. Video enabled attendance is available. Patients can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device. To receive the Zoom link to connect to this workshop, please email Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net
Read More About Journey Beyond Your Cancer: Thrivorship Workshop
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10Oct
This group is for all patients facing cancer. The meeting enables participants to share experiences and express feelings and concerns. All cancer patients, family members, survivors, and caregivers are welcome to attend. Meets weekly on Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in person and virtually. For directions to Sierra Cafe 104, please use the following link: Campus and Parking Maps | Renown Health Click on the “Renown Regional Medical Center Visitor Guide” to download the PDF map. Sierra Cafe 104 is located on the 1st Floor of the Sierra Tower past the gift shop on the right as you enter the Sierra Cafe. Video enabled attendance available. You can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device (smart phone, iPad, laptop, or webcam/desktop). A virtual invitation with instructions on how to connect will be sent via email the Wednesday before the meeting.
Read More About Cancer Support Group
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