Hair loss has become a common problem these days. In general, about 50 to 100 hairs are shed in a day and it is a natural process. But when the hair loss is more and the hair growth is less, it is considered as hair loss. People of any age group can experience hair loss which can be either temporary or permanent. Hair loss can happen due to various reasons and it is different from hair shedding.

Some people may prefer to neglect it and wait until it goes on its own. Some people cover their hair loss with hairstyles, wigs, etc. Some other people choose to undergo treatment to prevent further loss of hair.

How Do I Know If I Have Hair Loss or If It Is Hair Shedding?

If you have hair loss, you might experience the following signs:

• Losing more hair than usual
• When you partition your hair, you may notice that your partition becomes wider
• The hairline looks higher than usual
• Losing hair after combing your hair
• Bald patches that range in size
• Shower and sink drains get clogged with hair
• If your hair loss is due to some underlying condition, you may experience pain and itchy scalp

If you get distressed with the above signs, consider visiting a doctor to prevent further hair loss.

What Causes Hair Loss?

As mentioned earlier, hair loss can occur due to various reasons. The following are some of the most common causes of hair loss:

• Heredity: It is the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women. It is a hereditary condition that occurs as a part of ageing and it is called androgenic alopecia. It occurs slowly and it is due to the inherited genes that make your hair follicles shrink and stop growing.
• Age: You may notice hair loss and reduced hair growth as you get older. The hair follicles will stop growing further and you notice thinning of your hair. You may also notice changes in your hair colour.
• Hormonal imbalance: Hormonal imbalances are also a common cause for hair loss in both men and women. Excess androgens in females can weaken hair follicles and cause excess hair fall. Whereas in males, excess dihydrotestosterone can cause male pattern baldness. Hormone-related conditions such as thyroid can also lead to hair loss.
• Pregnancy: Following pregnancy and childbirth, hormones get fluctuated and this causes hair loss. About 40 to 50% of women experience hair loss following pregnancy.
• Stress: Any illness or other personal issues can cause intense stress. It is also common to experience hair loss after a fever.
• Nutrient deficiencies: Certain vitamins and minerals are essential for proper hair growth. Deficiency of these vitamins and minerals can cause hair loss.
• Use of certain medications: The use of certain medications can cause some side effects such as hair loss. It is called drug-induced hair loss.
• Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases such as alopecia areata, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and lupus can also lead to hair loss. Hair loss due to autoimmune diseases cannot be reversed and can be permanent in some cases.
• Cancer treatment: If you are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer treatment, you may experience hair loss within a few weeks of your treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Hair Loss

The doctor will conduct a physical exam and will ask you about your haircare routine, family history, diet, etc. The doctor may conduct some tests such as blood tests, scalp biopsy, pull tests, light microscopy, etc.

The treatment for hair loss is based on its cause. Hair loss due to some causes can be treated and can be reversed. The following are the common treatment options:

Medications: If your hair loss is due to the use of certain medications, the doctor advises you to stop using them. Hereditary baldness can be treated using medications. If hair loss is caused by an autoimmune disease, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications.

Platelets-rich plasma (PRP): PRP has gained popularity in recent times and it is effective at promoting hair growth. Plasma is collected from your own blood and is drawn up into a syringe. Now, it is injected into the bald areas where hair growth needs to be promoted.

Surgery: Surgery is considered as the last choice of treatment for hair loss if other treatments do not help. The surgery involves extracting hair from the back of your head and then implanting the collected hair at the bald spot.

Visit Skin Stories If You are Looking for a Hair Loss Treatment in Hyderabad

If you have been looking for the best solution for your hair fall issue, visit Skin Stories today. Skin Stories can treat various skin and hair issues irrespective of age and gender. We are well equipped with effective tools and technology at our clinic. To schedule your consultation, call us and the rest will be taken care of.