Hair Loss: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Many people have suffered from hair loss at some point in their lives, also referred to as alopecia. It is possible to lose hair in any part of the body, but it is most noticeable on the scalp because of genetics, hormones, aging, stress, illness, and medication.
Causes of Hair Loss
There are many possible causes of hair loss, but some of the most common ones are:
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Hair loss caused by androgenetic alopecia is the most common type, affecting both men and women. Genetic and hormonal factors cause the hair follicles to shrink and produce shorter, thinner hairs. Men with this type of hair loss usually experience receding hairlines and balding crowns, while women have thin hair at the top and front of the scalp.
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The immune system attacks the hair follicles in alopecia areata, which causes patchy hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body. Alopecia areata is unknown to its exact cause, but it may be triggered by stress, infection, or other factors. Alopecia areata is more common in children and young adults.
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The telogen effluvium occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase (telogen) of the hair cycle and then fall out after a short period of time. There are several reasons for telogen effluvium, including pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, illness, medications, or emotional stress.
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Hair loss caused by excessive pulling or tension on the hair, such as from tight hairstyles, braids, ponytails, or extensions, is termed traction alopecia. If left untreated, traction alopecia can lead to permanent hair loss.
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Other causes: Some other possible causes of hair loss include fungal infections, thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or certain skin conditions.
Symptoms of Hair Loss
The symptoms of hair loss may vary depending on the cause, type, and extent of hair loss. Some of the common symptoms are:
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Gradual thinning of hair on the top of the scalp
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Receding hairline or bald spots on the scalp
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Patchy or circular areas of hair loss on the scalp or other parts of the body
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Diffuse hair loss all over the scalp or body
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Excessive shedding of hair after washing, brushing, or combing
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Changes in the texture, color, or quality of the hair
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Itching, redness, or inflammation of the scalp or skin
Diagnosis of Hair Loss
To diagnose the cause and type of hair loss, a doctor may perform a physical examination of the scalp and hair, and ask about the medical history, family history, and lifestyle of the patient. The doctor may also order some tests, such as:
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Blood tests: To check for any hormonal, nutritional, or immune-related problems that may cause hair loss, such as thyroid dysfunction, iron deficiency, or autoimmune disorders.
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Scalp biopsy: To take a small sample of the scalp skin and hair follicles, and examine them under a microscope for any signs of infection, inflammation, or scarring that may cause hair loss.
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Trichoscopy: To use a special device that magnifies the scalp and hair, and allows the doctor to see the details of the hair follicles, shafts, and roots, and detect any abnormalities that may cause hair loss.
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Hair pull test: To gently pull a few hairs from different areas of the scalp, and count the number of hairs that come out. A normal hair pull test should result in one to three hairs per pull, while a higher number may indicate excessive hair loss.
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Hair analysis: To collect a sample of the hair, and send it to a laboratory for chemical analysis, to detect any traces of drugs, toxins, or metals that may cause hair loss.
Treatment of Hair Loss
The treatment of hair loss depends on the cause, type, and severity of hair loss, as well as the personal preference and expectations of the patient. Some of the possible treatment options are:
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Medication: There are some medications that can help slow down, stop, or reverse some types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. These include:
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This is a topical solution or foam applied twice a day to the scalp to stimulate hair growth. It can be used by both men and women, but it can take several months to see results, and the hair loss may resume if the treatment is discontinued.
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In finasteride, a hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink is blocked by taking the pill once a day. It may take several months for finasteride to take effect, and the hair loss may resume if the treatment is stopped. There are also some side effects associated with finasteride, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and gynecomastia.
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Injections, pills, or creams known as corticosteroids suppress the immune system, reducing inflammation and hair loss caused by alopecia areata. While corticosteroids can be used for short- or long-term treatment, they may also cause side effects like weight gain, mood changes, or infection risk.
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Other medications: Some other medications that may be used to treat hair loss include anthralin, dithranol, cyclosporine, or immunotherapy, but their effectiveness and safety are not well established.
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Surgery: There are some surgical procedures that can help restore the appearance of hair, such as:
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During a hair transplant, healthy hair follicles are removed from one part of the scalp (donor site) and transplanted to another part (recipient site) where thinning or balding is occurring. In addition to producing natural-looking and permanent results, hair transplantation can also cause some complications, such as scarring, infection, and poor graft survival.
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During a scalp reduction, a part of the scalp skin that is bald or thinning is removed, and the remaining scalp skin is stretched to cover the area. In addition to reducing the size of the bald area, scalp reduction can also cause scarring, infection, or tightness.
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Under the scalp skin, a balloon-like device is inserted, and it is gradually inflated to stretch the skin and prepare it for hair transplantation. In addition to increasing the amount of hair that can be transplanted, scalp expansion may also cause pain, infection, or leakage of the device.
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It involves moving a flap of scalp skin with hair from one part of the head to another part of the head where the hair is thinning. In addition to providing immediate and extensive coverage of the bald area, scalp flaps can also result in scarring, infection, or mismatched hair colors or directions.
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Alternative therapies: There are some alternative therapies that may help improve the health and growth of the hair, such as:
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A laser therapy involves using low-level laser light to stimulate blood circulation and cellular activity in the hair follicles, thereby stimulating hair growth. The results of laser therapy may take several weeks or months, and if the treatment is stopped, hair loss may return. Laser therapy can be done at home or in a clinic.
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The purpose of massage therapy is to improve blood flow and nutrients to the hair follicles, as well as to promote hair growth, by applying pressure and movement to the scalp. As well as helping reduce stress and tension that can lead to hair loss, massage therapy can be done by oneself or by a professional.
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Inhaling or applying essential oils, such as lavender, rosemary, or peppermint, can have beneficial effects on hair follicles, such as stimulating, soothing, or anti-inflammatory effects. Patients may benefit from aromatherapy at home or at a spa, and it may also improve their mood and well-being.
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Herbal therapy: It involves taking or applying herbal remedies, including saw palmetto, ginkgo biloba, and green tea, which may influence the hair growth hormones, blood vessels, or antioxidants. In addition to interactions with other medications, herbal therapy can also cause side effects, such as nausea, headaches, or allergic reactions. It can be administered at home or in a clinic.
Prevention of Hair Loss
Genetics, hormones, stress, aging, medications, infections, or diseases can all contribute to hair loss. Here are some tips to help keep your hair healthy and strong. Although some types of hair loss are unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to reduce or prevent hair loss.
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Make sure you eat enough protein, iron, zinc, biotin, and other vitamins and minerals to support the health of your hair. Eat a balanced diet. Foods that are good for your hair include eggs, nuts, seeds, beans, spinach, salmon, and berries.
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Whenever possible, avoid harsh treatments and stylings. Chemicals, heat, and excessive pulling can harm your hair. Avoid bleaching, dyeing, perming, or straightening your hair too frequently. Use gentle shampoos and conditioners that are suitable for your hair type. Don't brush your hair when it's wet; it's more fragile and prone to breakage. To detangle your hair gently, use a wide-toothed comb or a soft brush. Hairstyles that pull on your scalp, such as braids, ponytails, or buns, can cause traction alopecia.
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Stress can trigger or worsen hair loss by affecting your hormones, immune system, and blood circulation. Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as meditation, yoga, exercise, hobbies, or talking to someone you trust. You may benefit from professional counseling or therapy if you experience chronic or severe stress.
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Don't expose your hair to the sun or pollution. UV rays and environmental pollutants can damage your hair and scalp, leaving it dry, brittle, and susceptible to infection and inflammation. When you go outside during the summer, always wear a hat, scarf, or sunscreen. It is important to wash your hair regularly to keep dirt, dust, and sweat from clogging your pores and affecting your hair growth.
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Your doctor should be consulted if you notice any signs of hair loss. Hair loss may be a sign that you have an underlying medical condition, such as thyroid issues, anemia, diabetes, lupus, or scalp infections. As soon as you notice hair changes, such as thinning, bald patches, excessive shedding, or changes in texture or color, you should see your doctor. In addition to diagnosing the cause of your hair loss, they can prescribe medications, supplements, or surgery as a treatment option. In the early stages of hair loss, early intervention can help prevent further hair loss and increase the likelihood of regrowth.
