Loss of hair (alopecia) occurs as a regular phenomenon. Although it is more common for older people, everyone may experience it, even children.
It's common losing between 50 to 100 hairs every day as per the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). With approximately 10,000 hairs around your hair, this little loss isn't a big deal. New hair is usually replaced by hair that was lost, but this isn't always the case.
The loss of hair may occur slowly over time or occur suddenly. Based on the root cause it could be permanent or temporary.
Do you want to know whether you're actually losing hair or if it's just the normal shedding? Not sure if you should visit a physician? Find out more about loss of hair and how to deal with it.
The language of the spoken word is important.
Gender and sexuality exist in a spectrum. For the purpose of this article, we will use "male" or "female" to describe the person's gender at birth. Learn more.
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Hair loss symptoms
The most prominent symptom of alopecia is that you lose more hair than normal, but this is more difficult to spot than you believe.
The following symptoms could provide an indication of the condition:
Widening of the part. If you part your hair, you could begin to notice your hair becoming larger, which could be an indication of thin hair.
Hairline receding. Similarly, if you notice that your hairline appears higher than normal it could be an indication of thin hair.
Loose hair. Check your brush or comb after using it. Are you noticing more hair than normal? If yes, it could be an indication of loss of hair.
Bald patches. They may vary in size and may expand over time.
The drains are clogged. You may notice that your shower or sink drains are blocked by hair.
Itching or pain. If you have an underlying skin issue that is causing hair loss and you also experience the sensation of itching or pain in your hair.
What causes hair loss?
There are many types of hair loss. Some are typical, and others more rare, each having different reasons.
The type the hair loss is, it could be due to genetics, internal factors, or external triggers. Here's a look into several different kinds that hair loss can be caused by:
Androgenic Alopecia
Androgenic Alopecia refers to hair loss due to genetics, such as male pattern hair loss as well as female pattern hair loss and is called "pattern Alopecia" due to the fact that it can occur to females and males.
It's also the most frequent reason for hair loss which affects as much as half of those who trust Source.
The loss of hair caused by androgenic alopecia usually occurs slowly. Although some individuals may experience hair loss before puberty, some may not be aware of the signs until middle age.
Female pattern baldness usually causes thinning over the scalp, and can appear as if it is expanding or thinning around the area. The majority of cases occur after 65 however, for some females, it may be noticed earlier in life.
Male pattern baldness is typically gradual loss of hair above the temples and thinness at the top of the head. This creates the "M" form.
Find out more about hereditary hair loss.
Alopecia areata
Alopecia areata can be described as an auto-immune condition which causes the immune system of your body to target hair follicles which results in patches of hair loss which can vary from small to huge. In certain cases it could cause total loss of hair.
Along with loss of hair from the head, sufferers with alopecia can be seen losing hair from their eyelashes, eyebrows and other areas of their body.
Find out more about alopecia aerate.
Anagen effluvium
Anagen effluvium causes an abrupt diminution of hair. It usually occurs due to chemotherapy or radiation treatments.
Hair growth is usually regenerated after treatment has ended.
Telogen effluvium
Telogen effluvium is one of the types of hair loss that occurs suddenly and result from physical or emotional shocks, such as a traumatizing incident, a period of extreme stress or serious disease.
It could also be due to hormonal changes similar to those that occur in:
childbirth
postpartum
menopause
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Other possible causes of Telogen effluvium are:
malnutrition that includes vitamin or mineral deficiency
certain endocrine disorders
beginning or stopping hormonal birth control
post-surgery in the result of anesthesia
acute illness or serious infections such as COVID-19
Different types of medicines may also trigger it, such as:
anticoagulants
anticonvulsants
oral retinoids
beta-blockers
thyroid medications
This kind of loss usually disappears on its own when the root cause is dealt with.
Tinea capitis
Tinea capitis is also known as Ringworm of the scalp is an infection of the fungal variety that may be a problem for the scalp and hair shaft. It can cause small patches of hair loss which are itchy and scaly. If not treated promptly patches or spots will get larger. patch will grow and become filled with pus.
These patches, also referred to the kerion could causeTrusted Source scarring, as well.
Other symptoms are:
The hair is fragile and breaks easily
scalp tenderness
Skin patches that are scaly and appear to be red or grey
It is treatable by antifungal medication.
Alopecia traction
Alopecia caused by friction is caused by excessive tension and pressure over the hair. It is usually due to wearing it in tight hairstyles, such as ponytails, braids, or buns.
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Hair loss photos
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How do you diagnose hair loss?
Since a variety of things can lead to hair loss, it is recommended to make appointments with a doctor when there are any signs of change to your hair.
They'll likely make use of a mix of your medical historywhich includes any recent surgeries, illnesses or other life stressors as well as the history of your family -- and an exam to determine the cause.
If they suspect an autoimmune skin problem, they may conduct an sample of the scalp's skin. This requires carefully removing a few tiny sections of skin to conduct laboratory tests.
It's crucial to remember that growth of hair is a complicated process, and multiple tests could be required to determine the root cause of the loss of hair. A biopsy could also be conducted when it's initially uncertain as to what the cause might be.
They can also request blood tests to determine any deficiencies in nutrients or signs of an underlying illness.
What is the possible treatments for the loss of hair?
There are a variety of treatments for losing hair, however the ideal solution for you will be based on the root of the loss of your hair.
The most frequent forms of hair loss can be addressed with oral or topical drugs, which could be the first step in treatment.
OTC (OTC) medicines typically comprise topical creams, gels solutions, foams, or solutions which you apply directly on the scalp. The most popular products include an ingredient known as minoxidil..
Prescription drugs, like finasteride (Propecia) could aid in preventing the loss of hair due to androgenetics particularly in male pattern hair loss. The medication is used regularly to prevent hair loss. However, there are some who experience new growth while taking finasteride.
Your physician may recommend corticosteroids, or other anti-inflammatory drugs in the event that hair loss appears due to an autoimmune disorder.
Some of the newer treatments currently being investigated include various kinds that use lasers, microneedling with PRP and other oral drugs. A lot treatment options are in the testing phase but further research is required.
Hair transplant surgery
Hair transplant procedure involves the removal of small pieces made of your skin one with some hairs, to the areas of your scalp that are bald.
This is a great option for those who have inherited baldness as the majority of them lose hair at the top of their heads. Because hair loss can become progressive over time, it could require multiple treatments over the course of time.
It is important to note that this technique is not likely to help or benefit those suffering from scarring Alopecias.
What can I do to prevent the loss of hair?
There are a few ways you can do to reduce hair loss:
Make sure your hairstyles are loose. If you regularly make your hair look braided or buns, ponytails, or braids make sure to keep them loose so that they do not put too much stress on your hair.
Do not touch your hair. If you can avoid pulling or twist your hair.
Pat hair dry. After washing with a towel, gently massage your hair. Do not rub your hair using the towel or twirling it inside the towel.
Make sure you have a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. You should incorporate lots of protein and iron in your meals and snacks.
Products and tools for styling can also be a major cause of hair loss. Some examples of tools or products that may cause hair loss are:
blow dryers
Combs that are heated
Hair straighteners
Coloring products
bleaching agents
Perms
relaxers
If you choose for styling your hair using heated tools, make sure to use them only when you're dry. Also, utilize the lowest settings you can.
If you're losing hair Use baby shampoo that is gentle to clean your hair. If you're not suffering from extremely oily hair, think about washing your hair just every two days or less often.
When should you see an expert regarding hair loss
It's recommended to visit an expert in healthcare for any unproven hair loss to determine the cause of the loss and the most effective method of treatment.
While you're at the appointment, be certain to mention your other concerns that you've observed, such as:
fatigue
Unexplained weight loss that is not explained
The fever
changes in the bowel movement
the appearance of rashes, or other skin conditions on your body, scalp or head
Recent medical procedures or surgeries
modifications to your nutrition and diet
any vaccines or immunizations that have been recently added or any medications
Any details you have about the time frame in which the hair loss took place as well as your family's history with hair loss can also help.
Frequently asked questions on hair loss
What vitamin could help to prevent hair loss?
Hair loss is a complex issue and the role of nutrition in treating or preventing loss of hair can be controversial.
While specific nutrients and nutrition are crucial to the process of growing hair and consuming more of these nutrients might not be beneficial, particularly in the case of a particular type of hair loss like scarring alopecia, or cicatricial Alopecia.
Included vitamins in your diet that could encourage your hair's growth are:
B vitamins, including folate, biotin, riboflavin and vitamin B12.
iron
vitamin C
Vitamin D
A few research from the Trusted Source indicates that excessive consumption of vitamin A , also known as selenium, with increased risk of hair loss.
What causes hair loss?
A higher chance of losing hair is associated with certain ailments. This includes:
polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
scalp psoriasis
Sexually transmitted infections, like Syphilis
thyroid disease
Loss of hair can be an effect of certain medication, including chemotherapy drugs to treat cancer.
Can you end hair loss forever?
Indefinitely stopping hair loss is contingent on the root causes. In general the earlier you address your hair loss problem, the better you'll be able to reduce or reverse the amount of loss.
Certain causes of hair loss causes cannot be reversed. This is the case for hair follicles that are damaged due to excessively tight hairstyles, damaged hair follicles caused by chemicals applied to hair as well as damage caused by immune-mediated illnesses.
Takeaway
Whatever is the reason for the loss of your hair getting medical assistance from your primary healthcare doctor or dermatologist will assist you in identifying the root cause. Treatments for loss of hair tend to work when they are initiated in the early stages.
Treatments can include modifications to the way you take care of your hair, changes in your diet, and medical treatments that could be applied topically or by mouth.
If your hair loss is inherited There are remedies that are available that can stop or reverse the loss of hair. If possible, speak with your physician to discuss the issues you are experiencing and eliminate significant medical issues that could be responsible for the loss of your hair.
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