Hair loss symptoms
Hair loss symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause of the hair loss. Here are some common hair loss symptoms to look out for:
- Thinning hair: Hair thinning is a common symptom of hair loss, especially in the early stages. The hair may look less dense and have less volume than before.
- Bald patches: Hair loss can cause bald patches on the scalp, which may be circular or irregular in shape.
- Receding hairline: In men, hair loss can cause a receding hairline, where the hairline moves further back towards the crown of the head.
- Excessive shedding: Hair loss can cause excessive shedding, where large amounts of hair fall out during brushing or washing.
- Itching or tingling: Some people may experience itching or tingling on the scalp as a result of hair loss.
- Scalp inflammation: Hair loss can cause inflammation on the scalp, which can lead to redness, swelling, and tenderness.
- Thinning eyebrows or eyelashes: Hair loss can also affect the eyebrows and eyelashes, causing them to become thinner or fall out.
If you are experiencing any of these hair loss symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional or hair restoration specialist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
What causes hair loss?
Hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Genetics: The most common cause of hair loss is genetics. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is an inherited condition that causes hair loss in a specific pattern on the scalp.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes can also cause hair loss. This includes changes in hormone levels during pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid imbalances.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can cause hair loss, including alopecia areata, scalp infections, and trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder).
- Medications: Certain medications can also cause hair loss, including chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, and some medications used to treat acne.
- Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain nutrients, such as iron, vitamin D, and biotin, can also cause hair loss.
- Stress: High levels of stress can cause hair loss, either directly or indirectly, by disrupting the normal hair growth cycle.
- Hairstyles and treatments: Certain hairstyles, such as tight braids or ponytails, and hair treatments, such as chemical straightening or coloring, can cause hair loss over time.
It’s important to note that hair loss can also be a natural part of the aging process, and some degree of hair loss is normal as people age. If you are experiencing hair loss, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional or hair restoration specialist to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Androgenic alopecia
Androgenic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is a common form of hair loss that is caused by genetics and hormones. In men, androgenic alopecia typically causes hair loss in a specific pattern, starting with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown of the head, eventually leading to partial or complete baldness. In women, androgenic alopecia typically causes diffuse hair thinning all over the scalp.
Androgenic alopecia is caused by an inherited sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. DHT binds to hair follicles and causes them to shrink, leading to shorter and finer hair growth over time. Eventually, the hair follicles may stop producing new hair altogether.
Treatment for androgenic alopecia can include medications such as finasteride and minoxidil, which can help to slow down or reverse hair loss in some cases. Hair transplant surgery may also be an option for those with more advanced hair loss. However, it’s important to note that not all forms of hair loss can be treated, and treatment may not be effective for everyone. If you are experiencing hair loss, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional or hair restoration specialist to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Telogen effluvium
Telogen effluvium is a common form of hair loss that is characterized by an increased shedding of hair during the telogen phase of the hair growth cycle. Telogen is the resting phase of the hair growth cycle, during which the hair follicle is not actively producing new hair.
Telogen effluvium can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
- Physical or emotional stress: High levels of stress can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, causing more hair to enter the telogen phase and eventually shed.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause hair to enter the telogen phase prematurely, leading to increased shedding.
- Illness or surgery: Any type of illness or surgery can cause temporary hair loss as the body redirects its energy towards healing.
- Medications: Some medications, such as beta blockers and antidepressants, can cause telogen effluvium as a side effect.
- Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain nutrients, such as iron, vitamin D, and protein, can also cause telogen effluvium.
Telogen effluvium is usually a temporary condition, and hair growth will typically resume once the underlying cause is addressed. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional or hair restoration specialist if you are experiencing hair loss to rule out any underlying medical conditions and determine the best course of treatment.
Tinea
Tinea is a fungal infection of the skin that can affect the scalp and cause hair loss. Tinea capitis, also known as scalp ringworm, is a type of tinea that affects the scalp and hair shafts. It is caused by a group of fungi known as dermatophytes, which can live on the skin and hair of humans and animals.
Tinea capitis can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Patchy hair loss: Hair may fall out in small, round patches on the scalp, leaving bald spots.
- Itching: The affected area may be itchy or sore.
- Scaling: The scalp may be scaly or flaky, and the affected hair may appear dull and brittle.
- Swollen lymph nodes: In some cases, the lymph nodes in the neck may become enlarged.
Tinea capitis is most commonly seen in children, but it can affect people of all ages. Treatment typically involves the use of antifungal medications, which can be taken orally or applied topically to the affected area. It’s important to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you have tinea capitis or any other form of fungal infection, as untreated infections can lead to more severe symptoms and complications.
What are the treatment options for hair loss?
The treatment options for hair loss depend on the underlying cause of the condition. Some of the most common treatment options include:
- Medications: Medications such as minoxidil and finasteride can be used to treat androgenetic alopecia, the most common form of hair loss in both men and women. These medications work by promoting hair growth and preventing further hair loss.
- Hair transplant: Hair transplant surgery involves taking hair from a donor area of the scalp (usually the back or sides of the head) and transplanting it to areas of the scalp where hair is thinning or missing.
- Low-level laser therapy: This treatment involves the use of a special device that emits low-level laser light to stimulate hair growth.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: This involves the injection of platelet-rich plasma (a substance derived from the patient’s own blood) into the scalp to promote hair growth.
- Scalp micropigmentation: This treatment involves the use of micro-needles to deposit pigment into the scalp, creating the appearance of fuller hair.
- Lifestyle changes: Making certain lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, improving diet, and getting regular exercise, may also help to improve hair health and reduce hair loss.
It’s important to consult a healthcare professional or hair restoration specialist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs and to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your hair loss.
