Thinning hair is a problem that affects both men and women. Although hair loss doesn't pose a serious health threat in and of itself it can indicate a health problem. It can also affect your appearance and your self-esteem. Though some types of hair loss are far more prevalent than others, there are actually a number of possible causes for your thinning hair.
Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia is a clinical term for pattern baldness. Pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss among men and it significantly affects women as well. As the name suggests, this type of hair loss follows a specific pattern. In men, it tends to begin at the hairline and recede toward the back of the head. In women, it tends to occur all over the head. Androgenetic alopecia is usually genetic and can be inherited from either side of your family.
Cicatricial (Scarring) Alopecia
Cicatricial alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs when hair follicles become scarred and damaged due to inflammation. This damage permanently impedes new hair from growing. Though uncommon, this condition has been found in otherwise healthy men, women and children worldwide. Physicians are still unsure why cicatricial alopecia occurs.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is a condition that causes ring-like patches of hair loss. These can occur on the scalp or all over the body. The cause of alopecia areata is unknown. Though it is associated with autoimmune disorders, many people with alopecia areata tend to otherwise be in good health. Hair loss due to alopecia areata is usually not permanent, although it can recur.
Traction Alopecia
Styling your hair in braids or ponytails that are too tight can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. Traction alopecia itself is not permanent. However, if the excessive pulling causes damage and scarring to your scalp and hair follicles, your hair may not grow back.
Hormones
Hair loss can be caused by hormonal changes due to pregnancy, childbirth, starting or stopping a birth control pill regimen, menopause, uncontrolled diabetes or an underactive or overactive thyroid gland. If hormonal imbalances are corrected, related hair loss may stop.
Diet
Poor nutrition due to illness, crash diets or eating disorders can lead to hair loss, usually due to a lack of essential nutrients like iron or protein.
Medical Treatments
Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation commonly cause hair loss, although hair usually grows back once treatment ceases. FamilyDoctor.org notes that a number of medications can cause hair loss, including blood thinners, an excess of vitamin A, certain gout, high blood pressure and heart medications, birth control pills and antidepressants
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is a change in your natural hair cycle. Normally your hair grows, then goes through a "resting" phase. After the resting phase, it falls out and a new one grows in its place. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, severe emotional or physical shock can cause your hair to go into the resting phase prematurely and then to fall out much earlier than it should. Once you have recovered from the cause of the hair loss it should grow back.
Member Comments