この記事の概要
This column explains the key points to consider when choosing an AGA treatment clinic. By choosing a clinic with an outpatient dermatology clinic, you can receive a precise diagnosis that includes alopecia and scalp problems other than AGA, thus ensuring optimal treatment. In addition, clinics that accept insurance often provide detailed diagnosis through blood tests and other procedures, which can reduce the financial burden. In addition, it is important to find a clinic you can trust by considering the use of generic drugs, word of mouth, confirmation of the doctor's credentials, and the clinic's atmosphere.
Important points to remember when choosing an AGA treatment clinic and the importance of specialized outpatient services
For many men, AGA (androgenetic alopecia) is an unavoidable issue as they age. If left untreated, the condition will not stop progressing, so early treatment is recommended. There are many clinics available for AGA treatment, and you may be unsure which one to choose. To choose the right clinic, it is important to choose a clinic with a specialized dermatology outpatient clinic or a place where insurance treatment is available.
Reasons to choose a clinic with a specialized dermatology clinic
When undergoing AGA treatment, it is important to choose a clinic that can not only treat thinning hair , but also accurately diagnose other types of hair loss and scalp problems. Clinics with dermatologists will perform detailed diagnoses to rule out the possibility of hair loss other than AGA. For example, if hair loss is due to other diseases, such as alopecia areata or thyroid disease, AGA treatment alone may not be effective.
Benefits of a clinic with a dermatologist
A clinic with a dermatologist on-site offers the following benefits:
- Precise diagnosis : We can also perform differential diagnosis for hair loss other than AGA (alopecia areata, thyroid abnormalities, iron deficiency anemia, etc.). This makes it possible to prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment.
- Appropriate treatment selection : Even if AGA and other diseases exist at the same time, an individual treatment plan can be created and treatment can be carried out efficiently.
- Expert advice : They provide comprehensive support, including lifestyle changes, choosing supplements, and risk management for treatment.
Benefits of choosing a clinic that accepts insurance
Clinics that accept insurance for AGA treatment are not only economically advantageous, but also often offer detailed testing. For example, blood tests can be used to check for other causes of hair loss (thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, hormonal imbalance, etc.) that can be used to help with treatment.
The importance of various blood tests
- Hormonal testing : Checks the balance of the male hormone testosterone and its derivative DHT (dihydrotestosterone) to help determine the progression of AGA and treatment options.
- Thyroid function tests : Check to see if your thyroid hormones are normal, as an underactive thyroid can cause hair loss.
- Assessment of nutritional status : AGA can sometimes be caused by a deficiency of nutrients such as vitamin D, zinc, and iron, and by checking the blood levels of these nutrients, supplementation can be considered if there is a deficiency.
At clinics that accept insurance-covered medical treatment, these tests may be able to be performed within the scope of insurance coverage, which has the advantage of improving diagnostic accuracy as well as reducing the financial burden.
Checking for scalp ringworm with a fungal test
Scalp ringworm is a fungal infection that causes hair loss symptoms different from AGA. If you have a fungal infection, you will need to treat it with antifungal drugs. Clinics that can perform fungal tests can detect these diseases early and provide appropriate treatment.
Distinguishing between scalp tinea and AGA
Unlike AGA, scalp tinea is caused by an infectious disease, and symptoms tend to worsen if treatment is not administered promptly. Fungal testing can accurately diagnose the condition, and it is possible to proceed with a different treatment at the same time as AGA treatment. Based on an appropriate diagnosis, treatment for AGA and infection can be administered in parallel to prevent hair loss from progressing and support the recovery of a healthy scalp.
Economic considerations for long-term AGA treatment
AGA treatment is generally long-term, and the cost of treatment may be a continuous burden. Therefore, it is a good idea to choose a clinic that handles generic drugs. Generic drugs contain the same ingredients as original drugs but are less expensive, which helps reduce treatment costs.
Safety of generic drugs and how to choose them
Generic drugs are manufactured in Japan under strict standards, ensuring their quality and effectiveness. Among AGA treatment drugs, there are generic versions of finasteride and dutasteride, for example, which can reduce costs by 30-50% compared to the original drugs. It is wise to consider generic drug options in order to continue treatment without straining yourself while focusing on the balance between price and quality.
Check reviews and records to choose a reliable clinic
When choosing a clinic, word of mouth and track record are also important factors. By referring to the opinions of patients who have actually received treatment, you can learn about the clinic’s reliability, the staff’s attitude, and the effectiveness of the treatment. Clinics with a proven track record often take patients’ opinions seriously and incorporate them into their treatment, giving you peace of mind.
How to spot trustworthy reviews
- Does it describe a specific experience ? Reviews that specifically describe the treatment, staff behavior, and treatment results are highly reliable.
- A balance of positive and negative reviews : It’s also helpful to see not only positive reviews, but also reviews that point out areas for improvement.
- Recent reviews : Treatments and techniques change every year, so checking the most recent reviews will help you understand the current situation of the clinic.
The doctor’s qualifications and the atmosphere of the clinic are also important.
When choosing a clinic, make sure to check whether the doctor is certified by the Japanese Dermatological Association. Doctors with specialized knowledge will provide higher quality treatment and be more trustworthy. The atmosphere of the clinic is also important, so consider whether it is easy to get to and whether the staff’s attitude suits you.
Gaining peace of mind through counselling
Many clinics offer free consultations. It is a good idea to use this to check the atmosphere of the clinic and your compatibility with the doctor. It will help you choose a clinic that satisfies you by checking whether they answer your questions carefully and clearly explain the fees and treatment contents.
If you choose an AGA treatment clinic from the above perspective, you can receive treatment that you will be satisfied with in the long term. AGA is a condition that varies greatly from person to person, so choosing the right clinic is the first step to effective treatment. Start treatment at a clinic that suits you and concentrate on your treatment with peace of mind.
summary
AGA treatment is often long-term, so choosing a clinic that handles generic drugs is one way to reduce the financial burden. If the quality of generic drugs is ensured, you can use them with peace of mind and continue treatment without difficulty. Choosing a clinic that emphasizes the balance between price and quality is very important for continuing AGA treatment.
