Hair loss is a common problem that can occur in any part of your body but mainly develops on your scalp. It affects men and women alike, but the difference boils down to the pattern. Most men lose hair on the tops of their heads, while women experience hair loss in the form of a receding hairline. Regardless of when and how it occurs, hair loss can affect your confidence. Severe hair loss can result in psychological stress, affecting your quality of life. The good news is Martin Maag M.D. can help restore your hair with treatment such as hair transplant. Below are common causes of hair loss.
What causes hair loss?
Hair loss develops when there is little to no replacement of hair that has fallen out. It is typical for people to lose 50 to 100 hairs each day, and it usually is not noticeable since there is expected growth of new hair. However, you may experience a receding hairline if you are a woman or gradual thinning on top of your head due to different factors. Here are the common factors related to hair loss.
Hairstyles
Hairstyles that pull your hair, such as tight braids, pigtails, and cornrows, can cause traction alopecia. For this reason, you should ask your hairdresser to limit the tension each time they do your hair. Excessive hair manipulation also contributes to hair loss since a lot of hair falls out during the process. Proper hair care can help you prevent traction alopecia.
Family history
Hereditary hair loss or androgenic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss globally. In men, it is referred to as male pattern hair loss and female pattern hair loss in women. You can inherit genes that cause your hair follicles to shrink, stopping hair growth. Most people with such genes experience hair loss as they age.
However, it can start as early as in your teenage hair. The first sign of hereditary hair loss in men is a bald spot on their head or a receding hairline. In women, the hair thins, and the widening part broadens.
Overly stressful events
Some people may experience hair loss following a stressful event in their life. It usually happens months after the shock, and most of the time, hair loss is temporary.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes in your body may be due to pregnancy, menopause, childbirth, and thyroid problems. These factors can result in temporary or permanent hair loss. Hair loss is also one of the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome. It is a condition in women that causes the development of cysts in the ovaries.
Women with this condition may also have excess androgen, which can cause male pattern baldness—discontinuing oral contraceptives can also cause a temporary hormonal change. Most women who lose hair due to hormonal changes develop thin hair on their scalp.
Medications
Medication used to treat cancer, arthritis, high blood pressure, heart problems, and depression may cause hair loss. If you think hair loss is due to your medications, consult your doctor before stopping to avoid serious health problems.
If you want to restore your hair, schedule an appointment with your doctor at Honest Hair Restoration for treatment to look your best.
