Although you may associate hair loss with aging, hair loss can occur at any age and in any gender. If you observe excess amounts of hair in your brush or hair falling out in clumps in the shower, it may be time to see a physician for treatment options to reduce the extent of your hair loss.
Significance
Hair loss can be caused by a number of factors. For male hair loss, the most common cause is a condition known as androgenetic alopecia, according to Bernstein Medical Center for Hair Restoration. This condition occurs when a male hormone causes hair follicles to stop producing hair. Illness, stress, hormonal imbalances such as a thyroid disorder, medical conditions, medications and fungal infections all can contribute to early hair loss in both men and women, according to Kids Health.
Identification
Early hair loss occurs chiefly at the front of the hairline, top of the scalp and crown of the head in men, according to Bernstein Medical. Women who experience early hair loss can experience this anywhere on the entire scalp, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Effects
The earlier a person begins to lose his hair, the more extensive the hair loss is likely to be over time, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Hair loss can effect a person's self-esteem and cause him to feel negatively about his appearance. If hair loss is a result of stress or an underlying medical condition, hair loss also can make a person feel fearful, as if the condition is life-threatening.
Solution
If you experience early hair loss, see a physician to determine the cause of your early hair loss. If your hair loss is due to medications you take, switching to an alternate medication may be helpful. If early hair loss is due to pattern baldness, oral or topical medications may stimulate hair growth. Other solutions include purchasing a wig or other head covering that makes you feel confident when wearing it, according to Kids Health.
Considerations
If you suspect that you may be experiencing the early signs of hair loss, seeking a physician's treatment as early as possible can potentially lessen the severity of your hair loss, according to Hair Boutique. If you find you are losing more hair than is normal, make an appointment with your dermatologist or primary care physician to discuss potential causes of your hair loss.
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