Hair loss can start at any age and may continue throughout your life. However, the rate of hair loss can differ greatly from one individual to the next. The older you are, the more likely you are to experience thinning or balding.
Balding can be an upsetting experience for both men and women. Losing your hair can make you feel self-conscious and can cause anxiety. But it’s important to remember that balding is a natural process that happens to everyone as they age. There are also many other causes of hair loss, so it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
There are treatments available for hair loss, so if you’re concerned about your hair loss, be sure to talk to your doctor. There are also several effective treatments available over the counter.
Here are some early signs of balding to look out for:
- Thinning hair: This is one of the earliest signs of balding. You may notice that your hair is thinner overall, or that you have less hair on your head than you used to.
- Receding hairline: This is when your hairline starts to recede or move back, from your forehead.
- Bald spots: You may notice bald spots on your head, which can be round or oval.
- Excessive hair shedding: If you’re losing more hair than usual, it could be a sign of balding. You may notice hair on your pillow in the morning or on the shower drain.
- Widening part: This is when the part in your hair gets wider, due to hair loss on the sides of your head.
Other causes of hair loss
The causes of hair loss are distinct from androgenic alopecia, and they can affect both men and women. Alopecia is a condition in which the hair thinning or formation of bald spots occurs as a result of your genes, an accident, or an underlying illness that can cause the hair to thin or create bald areas. They are:
Alopecia areata. This is a little, circular patch of sudden hair loss that shows no symptoms. In addition to other hair on the body, the beard and eyebrows may be damaged.
Telogen effluvium. Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that’s common and is typically temporary. It occurs as a result of an overwhelming experience, such as a hospitalization, or from taking a new medication.
Tinea capitis. Tinea capitis, a fungus infection of the scalp, can create tiny scaly patches on the scalp that may have pustules. This might result in permanent hair loss as a consequence of scarring.
Cicatricial alopecia. This is a broad term that refers to scarring caused by hair loss. The follicles are destroyed, and rather than growing new hair, scar tissue develops. This phrase refers to several diseases that harm hair follicles permanently.
Nutritional deficiency. Hair loss can be caused by a deficit of protein, iron, or other vitamins in the body. A genuine vitamin deficit, on the other hand, is quite unusual.
Thyroid conditions. Thyroid issues are a common cause of hair loss. If you have hair loss that appears to have no underlying cause, your doctor may recommend checking your thyroid gland.
Scalp infections: Bacterial and fungal infections of the scalp can also lead to hair loss. These conditions usually cause other symptoms as well, such as scaling, itchiness, or redness of the skin.
Certain medical conditions (such as lupus or diabetes): Autoimmune diseases can cause hair loss because the body’s immune system attacks the hair follicles. Other medical conditions that can lead to hair loss include diabetes, lupus, and thyroid problems.
Certain medications (such as chemotherapy drugs): Chemotherapy drugs are known to cause hair loss. Often, this hair loss is only temporary, and your hair will grow back when you finish treatment.
Stress: Stress can lead to hair loss, though the exact mechanism is not fully understood. It’s thought that stress may cause follicles to go into a resting state and stop growing new hair.
Treatments for hair loss
There are several treatments available for hair loss, depending on the underlying cause. These treatments can be used to prevent further hair loss or encourage new hair growth.
This is a medication that is applied to the scalp to encourage hair growth. It is available over the counter in the form of a lotion, foam, or shampoo.
Finasteride: This is a prescription medication that is taken orally to treat male pattern baldness. It is not approved for use in women.
Spironolactone (Aldactone): For off-label usage, this medicine for women may be given. It works by binding to androgen hormone receptors in the body, keeping androgens like testosterone in check to avoid hormonal imbalances.
Topical retinoids: Some dermatologists prescribe compounded hair topicals that include a small number of topical retinoids, which may be beneficial.
Hair transplant: This is a surgical procedure in which hair follicles are transplanted from one area of the scalp to another.
Laser light therapy: Scalp hair density is increased with low-level light therapy and lasers.
Platelet-rich plasma therapy: This is a treatment in which your blood is used to encourage hair growth.
When to see a doctor
If you’re concerned about hair loss, it’s important to see your doctor. Hair loss can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, so it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis.
Your doctor will likely ask you questions about your medical history and do a physical exam to look for signs of other conditions that may be causing your hair loss. They may also recommend blood tests to check for conditions that can cause hair loss.
Treatment for hair loss will depend on the underlying cause. In some cases, such as with temporary hair loss due to stress, no treatment is necessary. In other cases, treatments can be used to prevent further hair loss or encourage new hair growth.
How to prevent hair loss
There are some things you can do to prevent hair loss, such as:
– Managing stress: Stress can lead to hair loss, so it’s important to find ways to manage your stress levels. This may include relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.
– Eating a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, iron, and other nutrients is important for healthy hair growth.
– Avoiding hairstyles that pull on the hair: Hairstyles that pull on the hair, such as tight ponytails or cornrows, can lead to hair loss.
– Use gentle hair care products: Harsh chemicals and heat styling can damage the hair and lead to hair loss. Instead, use gentle shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using heat styling tools.
The final conclusion
Hair loss is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, genetics, hormones, and medical conditions. There are several treatments available for hair loss, depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. In other cases, treatments can be used to prevent further hair loss or encourage new hair growth.
If you’re concerned about hair loss, it’s important to see your doctor and get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Taking steps to manage stress, eat a healthy diet, and use gentle hair care products can also help prevent hair loss.