Hair drop

Hair loss, also known as alopecia or baldness, refers to a loss of hair from part of the head or body. Typically at least the head is involved. The severity of hair loss can vary from a small area to the entire body. Some types of hair loss are temporary, while others are permanent. Hair loss can result from genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, or a normal part of aging. Men typically experience hair loss from the forehead or the crown of the head, while women generally have hair thinning all over the head.

Causes

Hair loss can have many causes, ranging from genetic factors to medical conditions and lifestyle choices. Some of the most common causes include:

• Genetics: The most common cause of hair loss is a hereditary condition called male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness. It usually occurs gradually and in predictable patterns.
• Hormonal changes: A variety of conditions can cause permanent or temporary hair loss, including pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid problems.
• Medical conditions: Several medical conditions can cause hair loss, including alopecia areata (an autoimmune disease that attacks hair follicles), scalp infections like ringworm, and a hair-pulling disorder called trichotillomania.
• Medications: Hair loss can be a side effect of certain drugs, such as those used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, gout, and high blood pressure.

Symptoms

The way hair loss occurs depends on the cause. It can come on suddenly or gradually and affect just the scalp or the whole body. Some types of hair loss are temporary, while others are permanent. Signs and symptoms of hair loss may include:

• Gradual thinning on top of the head
• Circular or patchy bald spots
• Sudden loosening of hair
• Full-body hair loss
• Patches of scaling that spread over the scalp

Treatment

Treatment for hair loss depends on the cause. In some cases, treating the underlying cause will correct the problem. Other treatments include medications and surgeries to promote hair growth and slow hair loss.

• Medications: Over-the-counter (OTC) medications typically include topical creams and gels that you apply to the scalp. The most common products contain minoxidil. Prescription medications may include finasteride for men or hormone therapy for women.
• Surgery: The most common surgical procedure for hair loss is hair transplantation. Other surgical options include scalp reduction and flap surgery.
• Lifestyle changes: Certain lifestyle changes can help manage hair loss, such as eating a balanced diet, reducing stress, and avoiding tight hairstyles that may pull on the hair.

Prevention

While you can't prevent all types of hair loss, you can reduce your risk by avoiding tight hairstyles, using a gentle shampoo, avoiding twisting or pulling your hair, and treating your hair gently when washing and brushing.

Resources

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Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Hair drop for any updates.

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