What Are the Causes of Hair Loss?
It is normal for most individuals to lose approximately 50-100 hairs daily, as new hair grows concurrently to replace the fallen strands. However, the issue arises when new hair growth ceases to occur, leaving the individual without a replenishing cycle. This can happen due to various factors.
Below, we outline some of the most common causes of hair loss:
Chemical Hair Treatments and Hairstyles
Certain hair treatments, such as hot oils and deep conditioning therapies, can lead to hair loss for some individuals. This issue may become permanent if such treatments induce scarring on the scalp. Additionally, consistently wearing hairstyles that tightly pull the hair back may result in permanent hair loss, a condition known as traction alopecia.
Significant Weight Loss
Temporary hair loss can occur after substantial weight loss over a short period. This generally becomes noticeable approximately 3-4 months after the weight loss and may persist for up to six months. The cause is often attributed to a deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals that are critical for hair growth, along with the physical stress the body experiences during this process.
Genetic Factors
Genetic hair loss typically presents gradually with age, characterized by a female pattern of thinning at the front of the scalp and a male pattern showing receding hairlines and bald spots. Regardless of gender patterns, genetic hair loss results from inherited genes that cause hair follicles to shrink over time, ceasing new hair growth.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations during various life stages can contribute to hair loss, especially since female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) play a crucial role in hair growth and retention on the scalp. Here are key stages:
- Menopause: The production of estrogen and progesterone declines, leading to hair thinning and cessation of growth.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal levels fluctuate during the first trimester to support fetal growth, possibly resulting in increased hair shedding beyond the normal rate.
- Postpartum: Many women experience noticeable hair loss in the months following childbirth, peaking about four months later. This is largely due to decreased estrogen levels, although this shedding is usually temporary and resolves without treatment.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Several medical conditions may cause temporary or permanent hair loss. Here are some notable examples:
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Anemia linked to iron deficiency can lead to hair loss, as this condition impacts the body’s ability to produce hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to cells, including hair follicles. However, damage to the hair follicles is typically not severe, allowing for potential regrowth once iron deficiency is addressed.
Thyroid Disorders
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause hair loss if they are severe and prolonged. These conditions disrupt the balance of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), impacting various bodily functions, including hair growth. In many cases, hair regrowth is seen after treating the underlying disorder.
Interestingly, certain medications for hyperthyroidism may also result in hair loss in rare instances, complicating the diagnosis.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder marked by increased production of male hormones (androgens) in women, leading to thinning hair and shedding, particularly at the front of the scalp. Treatment as per the physician’s prescribed plan is necessary for restoration.
Lupus
Lupus can cause inflammation in various body areas, including the scalp, potentially leading to gradual hair thinning and loss. While hair often regrows post-treatment, some cases may result in permanent loss.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing sudden hair loss. This can manifest as bald patches on the scalp or complete loss of hair on the head or body.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium refers to sudden temporary hair loss typically triggered by trauma, stress, or specific events, such as severe anxiety, surgery, childbirth, or an illness. These situations can disrupt the hair growth cycle, putting hair in a resting phase prematurely.
Hair shedding from telogen effluvium commonly begins several months after the triggering incident but usually resumes normal growth once the underlying issue is resolved.
Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is characterized by a compulsive urge to pull out one’s hair, leading to noticeable hair loss. Some individuals may not only pluck their hair but also chew or swallow it, resulting in digestive issues. Although the precise cause of trichotillomania remains unclear, this condition can be treated effectively.
Side Effects of Certain Medications
Hair loss can also manifest as a side effect of various medications, including:
- Arthritis medications.
- Antidepressants.
- Cancer treatments.
- Cardiovascular drugs.
- Hypertension medications.
Radiation Therapy
Receiving radiation therapy to the head or neck region may result in complete or significant hair loss within weeks of starting treatment. This type of therapy affects not only cancer cells but also healthy, rapidly growing cells in the body, including hair cells. Thankfully, hair typically regrows in most cases after treatment concludes.
When to Consult a Doctor Regarding Hair Loss
It is essential to seek medical advice for hair loss under certain circumstances, including:
- Experiencing anxiety about hair loss and a desire to find solutions.
- Noticing a receding hairline.
- Sudden excessive hair loss during washing or brushing, especially in the presence of bald spots.
Article Summary
Numerous factors can contribute to hair loss, including underlying medical conditions, genetic predispositions, hormonal changes, or medications. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional when observing increased hair loss beyond the normal range, particularly when it impacts one’s appearance and self-esteem or raises concerns.