What Medical Conditions Cause Hair Loss?

Hair loss can be the result of genetics, malnutrition and a host of medical conditions. Some of the conditions cause temporary hair loss and should stop when the condition is resolved or is sucessfully treated. For those experiencing hair loss, whether temporary or not, feelings of helplessness and frustration may result. This added stress is not helpful and can contribute to further hair loss. If the reason for the hair loss is unknown, seeking the help of a physician or dermatologist may be necessary to diagnose the problem.

Lupus

According to the Mayo Clinic, hair loss occurs in up to 54 percent of people with lupus and can happen at any time during the course of the disease. This hair loss, however, is temporary and typically grows back with treatment. The hair can shed from anywhere on the scalp and sometimes falls out in patches, but most often occurs all over. In some cases, a rash may result from Lupus and cause scarring of the hair follicles, which leads to permanent hair loss. Treatment medications such as prednisone and immunosuppressive therapies may also cause permanent hair loss.

Hypopituitarism

Hypopituitarism is a rare disorder that causes the pituitary gland to fail to produce one or more of its hormones. This condition can cause many problems, as the pituitary gland is responsible for secreting hormones that affect nearly every part of the body. Hypothyroidism is characterized by a short supply of pituitary hormones. A deficiency can affect the body's growth, reproduction and blood pressure functioning. It can also lead to a loss of hair as well as headaches, fatigue, weight changes, trouble staying warm, muscle weakness, dizziness upon standing, vision disturbances, and excessive thirst and urination. Medications may be needed to treat the condition.

Telogen Effluvium

According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common type of hair loss resulting from stress is telogen effluvium. This condition causes large numbers of growing hairs to go into the resting phase, resulting in abnormal hair shedding. This condition is not typically permanent, however. The normal hair cycle is likely to resume when stress is resolved.

References

Last updated on: Oct 27, 2009

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments