Hair loss is something most people experience at some point in their lives. It’s completely normal to shed around 50 to 100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. In a healthy cycle, these hairs are replaced by new ones. But when the hair that falls out isn’t replaced, it may indicate a condition known as alopecia.
This blog breaks down what causes hair loss, the different types, how it’s diagnosed, and what treatment options are available to help manage it.
What Is Hair Loss (Alopecia)?
Hair loss, or alopecia, refers to the condition where hair falls out and doesn’t grow back as it should. It can occur on the scalp or body and may affect men, women, and even children. Some types are temporary, while others can be permanent.
Types of Hair Loss
There are several common types of hair loss:
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Androgenic Alopecia: Also called male or female pattern baldness, this type is hereditary and typically progresses with age.
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Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition that causes hair loss in round patches on the scalp and body.
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Telogen Effluvium: Triggered by physical or emotional stress or hormonal changes, this involves sudden shedding of large amounts of hair.
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Anagen Effluvium: Rapid hair loss caused by medical treatments like chemotherapy.
How Common Is It?
Hair loss is extremely common. Pattern baldness alone affects millions of people. Additionally, temporary hair shedding is a frequent side effect of stress, illness, or medication.
Common Causes of Hair Loss
Hair loss can stem from a wide range of factors, including:
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Genetics
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Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
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Nutritional deficiencies (especially iron and protein)
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Tight hairstyles (braids, extensions, ponytails)
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Stressful life events
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Thyroid disorders
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Fungal infections of the scalp
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Chemical hair treatments (bleaching, perms)
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Medical treatments and medications
Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms can vary, but here are some common signs of hair loss:
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Gradual thinning on top of the head
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Receding hairline
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Patchy bald spots
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Excessive hair shedding
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Complete hair loss on the body or scalp
Potential Complications
Hair loss can have emotional and psychological impacts, including low self-esteem and stress. Additionally, if you lose a significant amount of hair, your scalp may become more vulnerable to sun exposure, increasing the risk of skin damage.
How Is Hair Loss Diagnosed?
To determine the cause of hair loss, a healthcare provider may:
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Ask about your medical and family history
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Examine your scalp
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Conduct blood tests to check for hormone and nutrient levels
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Take a scalp biopsy to look for underlying skin issues
Treatment Options for Hair Loss
Treatment depends on the cause. If it’s linked to a medical condition, treating the root cause can help stop or reverse hair loss. For more common conditions like androgenic alopecia, options include:
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Topical medications: Applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
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Oral medications: Help block hormones that cause hair thinning (usually prescribed for men).
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Hair transplant surgery: Involves moving healthy hair to thinning or bald areas.
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Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Involves injecting plasma from your blood into the scalp to promote growth.
Preventing Hair Loss
While not all hair loss is preventable, here are some tips to help reduce the risk:
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Maintain a nutritious diet with adequate protein and iron.
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Avoid hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair.
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Manage stress effectively.
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Treat underlying medical conditions, like thyroid disorders.
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Consider protective measures during chemotherapy (e.g., cooling caps).
What’s the Outlook?
The outlook for hair loss varies based on the cause. For many people, especially those with temporary conditions, hair can regrow with the right treatment and care. For others, hair loss may be permanent, but effective management options and support groups are available.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical advice if you notice:
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Sudden or excessive hair loss
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Itching, burning, or irritation on your scalp
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Hair loss across your body
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Bald patches developing quickly
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
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What’s causing my hair loss?
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Is it permanent or temporary?
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Are there treatments that could help me?
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Could my medications be contributing?
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Am I a candidate for hair transplant or other procedures?
Final Thoughts
Hair loss can be emotionally challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step toward finding an effective solution. Whether it’s a change in your lifestyle, a new treatment, or simply learning to embrace your look, there are many paths to feeling confident and in control.
Dr. Roshan Tip: At Dr. Roshan, we offer personalized hair loss treatments including PRP, GFC therapy, and advanced hair transplants. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward stronger, healthier hair.
Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21753-hair-loss
