Hair Loss Reasons and Treatment

For all of us, our hair is our ‘crowning glory.’ No doubt then that losing chunks of hair everyday is heartbreaking and bothersome, to say the least. Hence, the first step in treating and preventing hair loss is determining its underlying causes. The reasons for hair loss could range from hormonal imbalances to everyday stress. To know more about the reasons behind hair loss, read on.

Hair Loss: Reasons
Hormonal Problems: Hormonal imbalances can be caused by overactive or under-active hormonal glands, resulting in increased or decreased production of hormones. This lack or overabundance of hormone levels in the body results in hair loss. The thyroid hormones, androgens and estrogen are some hormones whose fluctuating levels may cause hair loss.

Side Effect of Medications: Drugs used in chemotherapy and those used as blood thinners lead to hair loss as an unwanted side effect. Similarly, birth control pills, antidepressants and an overdose of Vitamin A can also lead to hair loss.

Fungal Infections: Fungal infections on the head can also lead to hair loss. Fungal infections can be cured with anti-fungal medications.

Diseases: Undiagnosed or hidden diseases, such as lupus or diabetes, can also cause hair loss. Hence, be sure to check yourselves for these conditions if you are experiencing continuous hair loss.
Post-delivery (Three Months after Delivery): When a woman is pregnant, the increased hormonal levels in her body help prevent hair loss. However, post-birth, when the hormones go back to the pre-pregnancy levels, the hair starts falling.

Improper Care: Improper hair care, which includes using tight hair rollers, cornrows and excessive perming, can result in hair loss. If the scalp is scarred due to pulling, the hair loss can be permanent. Excessive hot oil treatment can also lead to hair loss.

Hair Loss and Growth: The Cycle
Normally, the hair growth cycle lasts for a period of two to six years. During this phase, the hair grows approximately one centimeter a month. However, a certain percentage of hair, at a time, remains in a resting phase. These dormant hair strands fall out after a couple of months and are replaced by new hair. Hence, it is perfectly normal to shed a few hair strands each day as part of the cycle. However, it is important to seek treatment when the hair loss gets excessive and uncontrolled.

Hair Loss: Treatment
Before beginning your treatment for hair loss, it is imperative to diagnose the underlying causes. Successful treatment of hair loss is only possible with the correction identification of the causes.