Losing 100 to 200 strands of hair is normal. These strands fall out and new hair takes its place. It is considered to be hair loss when new hair doesn’t grow in its place. Though seeing a chunk of hair in the shower drain or hair brush is alarming, it is a true cause of alarm when new hair strands don’t grow back. Hair loss can be categorized into two types – permanent and temporary. When experiencing hair loss, you must head to a hair transplantation clinic. Undergoing a consultation will help to understand the reason behind hair loss and how to tackle it. The following are some common reasons why people experience hair loss.
Pregnancy and Menopause
During pregnancy and after childbirth there is a significant fluctuation in the hormones in the body. Due to these hormonal changes, women often experience hair loss after delivery. This type of hair loss is mostly temporary. As the body begins to get back to normal, you will see new hair come in. It usually takes about a couple of months. Hair loss is a common side effect of pregnancy. When hair loss is experienced during menopause, it might not temporary.
Health Condition
There are illnesses and medical conditions that can cause hair loss. It is caused by thyroid and iron deficiency. Cancer is an obvious health condition that causes hair loss. Undergoing a basic health screening can help to identify the causes. Lupus and Trichotillomania are other health conditions which can lead to hair loss.
Medication
Chemotherapy and immunotherapy medication can cause hair loss. Medications like birth control pills and steroids also impact hair loss. Whereas medication for blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and acne can cause permanent hair loss.
Age
Age is a crucial factor that needs to be considered when talking about hair loss. As we age, the hair follicles also begin to age. This deterioration causes permanent hair loss. Most people begin to experience hair loss by their 60s.
Stress
We often undermine the role played by stress in our lives. Physical and emotional stress can cause hair loss. Whether you’ve been in a traumatic incident or undergoing a serious illness, it takes a toll on your physical and mental health. Irrespective of the cause of hair loss, stress is a contributing factor. As the body recovers from the trauma, you will also start to see new hair grow back. It is imperative that we actively work to combat the stress.
Genetics
Genes play a crucial role in our health and well-being. Hair thinning can be caused by genetic disposition. However, more men experience this type of hair loss than women. Due to this reason, it is often referred to as male pattern baldness. When experiencing this type of hair loss, the hairline around the temple begins to recede, and only “window peaks” are left behind. Hair loss takes place in a horseshoe pattern, with hair left behind on the sides and base of the head. Hair loss in females is referred to as androgenetic alopecia. Women experience hair loss in the form of thinning and widening of partitions.