Scalp hair loss

Scalp Hair Loss

Scalp hair loss, medically known as alopecia, is a condition characterized by the thinning or complete loss of hair from the scalp. It can affect individuals of any age, gender, or ethnicity, and can be temporary or permanent. The condition can result from various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, and lifestyle choices.

Causes

Several factors can contribute to scalp hair loss, including:

• Genetic Factors: Hereditary-pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss. It occurs due to genetics and affects both men and women.
• Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormones, due to pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid problems, can cause temporary or permanent hair loss.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as alopecia areata (an autoimmune disease that attacks hair follicles), scalp infections like ringworm, and diseases such as lupus and diabetes can lead to hair loss.
• Medications and Treatments: Certain medications, including chemotherapy for cancer, can cause hair loss as a side effect. Radiation therapy to the head can also cause scalp hair loss.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients, such as iron, protein, and vitamins, can contribute to hair loss.
• Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger temporary hair loss.

Symptoms

Symptoms of scalp hair loss can vary from a small bald patch to complete baldness and can 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

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of scalp hair loss involves a thorough medical history and physical examination by a healthcare provider. Additional tests may include:

• Blood Tests: To uncover medical conditions related to hair loss.
• Scalp Biopsy: Examining a small section of scalp skin under a microscope to determine the cause of hair loss.
• Hair Pull Test: Gently pulling on a few strands of hair to see how many come out, which helps determine the stage of the shedding process.

Treatment

Treatment for scalp hair loss depends on the cause of the condition. Options may include:

• Medications: Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine) or prescription medications such as finasteride (Propecia) for androgenetic alopecia.
• Hair Transplant Surgery: Removing small plugs of skin, each containing a few hairs, from the back or sides of the scalp and implanting them into the bald sections.
• Laser Therapy: FDA-approved laser devices to help improve hair density for people with genetic hair loss and thinning hair.
• Lifestyle Changes: Diet improvements, stress management, and avoiding hairstyles that pull on the hair (tight ponytails, braids) can help reduce hair loss.

Prevention

While not all forms of scalp hair loss can be prevented, some steps can be taken to minimize the risk, including:

• Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients
• Avoiding harsh hair treatments and styles
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Regularly washing the scalp with a mild shampoo to prevent infections

See Also

• Baldness
• Hair Follicle
• Dermatology