If you’re starting to lose your hair, you’re not alone. Hair loss is a common problem, and many things can cause it. In most cases, hair loss is not permanent and can be treated. However, if you’re experiencing hair loss, it’s essential to see a doctor and find out what’s causing it.
Some causes of hair loss are more serious than others. In this short guide, we’ll go over some of the most common and what you can do about them.
Anemia
Anemia is a common cause of hair loss. Anemia occurs when there isn’t enough iron in the blood. This can be due to blood loss, such as heavy menstrual periods or not getting enough iron in your diet.
If you’re anemic, you may feel tired and have other symptoms, such as shortness of breath and pale skin. Your doctor can do a blood test to check for anemia and recommend treatment.
Thyroid Problems
An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) can cause hair loss. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck that regulates many body functions, including metabolism.
If your body produces too little thyroid hormone, it can slow your metabolism and cause many other problems, including hair loss. Hypothyroidism is most common in women over 50 and can be treated with medication.
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormones play a significant role in hair growth, so it’s not surprising that an imbalance can cause hair loss. The most common hormonal causes of hair loss are an excess of androgens (male hormones) and a deficiency of thyroid hormone.
Androgens can cause male-pattern baldness. Other hormonal causes of hair loss include adrenal gland disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and pituitary gland tumors.
Autoimmune Disease
Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells. This can result in hair loss because the immune system mistakenly sees hair follicles as foreign invaders and attacks them.
One of the most common autoimmune causes of hair loss is alopecia areata, which causes patchy hair loss. Other autoimmune causes of hair loss include lichen planopilaris, frontal fibrosing alopecia, and scarring alopecias such as dissecting cellulitis.
Emotional Stress
Emotional stress can cause hair loss, but it is usually temporary. Stress causes a condition called telogen effluvium, which causes hairs to enter the resting phase and fall out.
This type of hair loss is usually temporary and goes away once the stressful event has passed. However, if you experience chronic stress, it can lead to permanent hair loss. You should talk to a doctor and see a hair specialist to learn how to compensate for hair loss.
Nutritional Deficiencies
One of the most common deficiencies is iron deficiency anemia, which causes diffuse thinning of the hair. Other nutritional causes of hair loss include protein, zinc, and biotin deficiencies. If you think you may be deficient in one of these nutrients, talk to your doctor about taking supplements.
Medications
There are many types of medications that can cause hair loss. These include chemotherapy drugs, beta-blockers, antidepressants, anticoagulants, and even birth control pills. Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments if you’re taking any medication that causes hair loss.
As you can see, there are many different causes of hair loss. If you’re experiencing hair loss, it’s important to see a doctor and find out what’s causing it. Hair loss can be a frustrating and embarrassing problem. However, in most cases, it is not permanent and can be treated. If you’re experiencing hair loss, contact LaDonna Roye Hair Stylist & Hair Loss Solutions.