Things That Cause Hair Loss In Women

Things That Cause Hair Loss in Women

Jun 4, 2010 | By Nicole Brown

Hair loss can be embarrassing and depressing for women. Hair loss and baldness are most often associated with the male aging process. However, a large number of women are also affected. According to the Body Logic MD website, approximately 20 million women in the United States suffer from hair loss. About 40 percent of the women in this group are 40 or younger. The medical community has identified several common reasons for hair loss in women.

Hormones

Hormonal changes play a big role in female hair loss. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" by James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, hair loss in women sometimes occurs at the onset of puberty, two to three months after having a baby and after menopause. Hair loss is more common after pregnancy and menopause because of a decrease in estrogen, a hormone that is prevalent in females that is influenced by the female reproductive system. Hormonal imbalance can also occur due to stress and thyroid problems.

Diet

A poor or insufficient diet, sudden weight loss or deficiencies of vitamins or iron can also play a role in women's hair loss. "Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing" recommends eating foods high in biotin (a B vitamin), such as lentils, oats and brown rice, to prevent hair loss.

Illness, Medical Treatments and Drugs

Many serious illnesses, medical treatments and drugs can also cause hair loss in women. Those suffering from cancer and undergoing chemotherapy often experience massive hair loss. Often, however, the hair grows back after treatments have been completed. Hair loss may also be experienced after any acute illness, skin disease, high fever, diabetes, hypothyroidism or surgery. Certain drugs and medications cause hair loss, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, lithium and oral contraceptives as well as many others. Ask your doctor if your current medications are known to contribute to hair loss.