Hair loss generally begins slowly, with a few hairs in your brush or sink often the first signs. Gradually, hair thins, hairlines recede, bald patches become obvious. A dermatologist can determine the cause of your baldness. Varying types of baldness have different causes; treatment may be possible, so consult your doctor about your baldness.
Identification
Alopecia, the medical term for hair loss, can be caused by a number of conditions. "Baldness typically refers to excessive hair loss from your scalp," the Mayo Clinic reports. Factors involved in hair loss may include genetics, such as male or female pattern baldness, and the environment, including cosmetic over processing, the American Hair Loss Association adds.
Types
Androgenetic alopecia, or male or female pattern baldness, is the most common cause of hair loss, the American Hair Loss Association reports. However, the organization reminds patients, "Several hundred diseases have hair loss as a primary symptom."
The condition in which hair falls out suddenly from its roots in one circular area, growing back after a few months, is known as alopecia areata.
Telogen effluvium occurs when more hair falls out more than is considered normal for the hair-growth cycle. This condition generally lasts about six months, but can last for years. Sometimes it improves on its own; other times it requires medication.
Trichotillomania is a psychological condition in which the sufferer pulls hair from the scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows and beard. This can become life-threatening if the person eats their hair, a condition called trichophagia.
Causes
Baldness can be caused from a variety of factors including aging, hormones, high fever or a severe illness, and scarring from burns or trauma. Male pattern baldness is usually caused by genetic factors, according to Ohio State University.
Alopecia areata is considered an autoimmune disorder, caused by the white blood cells from the immune system attacking hair follicles. It may be genetically linked.
Trichotillomania may be due to chemical imbalances that cause sufferers to pull out their hair to relieve tension, possibly without even realizing they are doing it. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology reports that this condition is more common in children.
Other causes of baldness include illnesses such as diabetes, lupus and thyroid disorders. Poor nutrition from eating disorders, certain medications, such as those used in chemotherapy, and smoking can also cause hair loss. Chemical treatments used to straighten, curl and color the hair, and styling methods, such as use of tight rollers or cornrows, can cause the hair to fall out.
Misconceptions
You might have heard that male pattern baldness can be traced to a man's maternal grandfather's genes. This is a myth. You might also have heard that excessive wearing of hats --- or, for certain athletes, helmets --- can make you go bald. This is another misconception.
Treatment
The American Hair Loss Association reports that billions of dollars are spent annually on hair-loss treatment, yet 99 percent of the marketed products are ineffective. As a result, the organization discourages you from using any product not approved by it or by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Two types of treatment have been proven to be clinically effective. The FDA has approved Propecia and Minoxidil. Once you stop the medication, however, you will lose any hair regrowth. Corticosteroid injections are the main treatment for alopecia areata.
Member Comments