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Causes of Hair Loss

1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Male & Female Pattern Baldness)

   • Cause: Hereditary, often occurring with age.
   • Treatment:
     • Medications: Minoxidil (Rogaine), Finasteride (Propecia).
     • Laser therapy and hair transplants.
     • Nutritional supplements may also help.

2. Pregnancy

   • Cause: Post-pregnancy hormonal changes, especially a drop in estrogen.
   • Treatment: Typically resolves within a year. Use volumizing products and avoid heavy conditioners.

3. Telogen Effluvium

   • Cause: Stress, surgery, childbirth, rapid weight loss, or thyroid conditions.
   • Treatment: Addressing the underlying cause; hair loss is usually temporary.

4. Anagen Effluvium

   • Cause: Chemotherapy, radiation, or autoimmune diseases.
   • Treatment: Minoxidil. Scalp cooling during chemotherapy can help prevent hair loss.

5. Alopecia Areata

   • Cause: Autoimmune disorder.
   • Treatment: Corticosteroid injections, topical treatments, and other medications.

6. Traction Alopecia

   • Cause: Tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, or cornrows.
   • Treatment: Avoiding tight hairstyles can prevent further hair loss.

7. Medications

   • Cause: Side effects of drugs such as antidepressants, acne treatments, and beta-blockers.
   • Treatment: Consult a doctor to adjust or switch medications.

8. Birth Control Pills

   • Cause: Hormonal changes from starting or stopping birth control.
   • Treatment: Opt for low-androgen index pills or switch to non-hormonal contraception.

9. Nutritional Deficiencies

   • Cause: Lack of protein, iron, or other essential vitamins and minerals.
   • Treatment: Dietary adjustments and supplements as prescribed by a doctor.

10. Ringworm (Tinea Capitis)

    • Cause: Fungal infection.
    • Treatment: Antifungal medications such as griseofulvin.

Self-Care Tips

To minimize hair loss and promote hair health:

• Reduce stress (e.g., meditation, massage).
• Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet with sufficient protein and healthy fats.
• Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke.
• Limit heat-based hair styling tools and chemical treatments.
• Opt for gentle hair care, avoiding tight hairstyles and harsh treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the main causes of hair loss?

• Male and female pattern baldness are the most common. Other causes include alopecia, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle factors like tight hairstyles.

2. Why might someone suddenly lose a lot of hair?

• Conditions such as anagen effluvium and alopecia areata can cause sudden hair loss. A doctor’s assessment is crucial.

3. How can someone stop hair from falling out?

• Adopt stress-relieving techniques, eat a balanced diet, avoid tight hairstyles, and limit heat styling.

4. What vitamin deficiency causes hair loss?

• A vitamin D deficiency is commonly linked to hair loss. Iron deficiency and insufficient vitamin C may also play a role.

Summary

It’s normal to shed about 100 hairs daily, but noticeable increases may indicate an underlying issue. Proper diagnosis by a doctor is key to determining the cause and implementing the right treatment. In many cases, treating the root cause will restore hair to its normal state.