Causes Of Hair Loss And How To Prevent It

Are you worried because you've lost some of your hair? Hair loss has a variety of causes and consequently there are numerous ways of treating it. If you've lost hair then the first thing to do is determine the reason why it is happening, because it can be a symptom of disease or malnourishment.

If You Are Male

Genetic hair loss, which is often termed male pattern baldness, is usually what causes men to start going thin on top. Male pattern baldness occurs slowly with thinning at the hair line or a slight bald patch at the center of the scalp. Some males begin to notice the signs of male pattern baldness in late adolescence, though it's more likely to occur in the fourth decade of life. How can you tell if you're destined to lose your hair because of genetic factors? The best indicator is your maternal grandfather; if he went bald then chances are that you will too.
There are other factors that can cause hair loss in men which aren't related to male pattern baldness. Chemotherapy cancer treatment is an obvious cause for hair loss in both men and women. However, it can also be caused by a stressful event, a sudden illness or certain medications. Other causes of hair loss in men are an iron deficiency or an underactive thyroid. If you're male and have begun to lose your hair, don't assume it's simply male pattern baldness. Always consult your doctor to make sure it's not something else causing your hair loss.

If You Are Female

Hair loss is distressing for men, but it's even worse if you are female. After all, long thick hair has long been considered a sign of femininity. One of the chief causes of hair loss in women is an immune disease called Alopecia Areata. This condition can affect both men and women and it has varying degrees of severity.
Telogen Effluvium, which is hair loss resulting from a traumatic event such as surgery, illness, malnutrition, or extreme stress, can also affect either sex. With this condition the stress on your body causes your hair to suddenly shed instead of growing.
Hair loss in women can also be the result of certain medications and treatments such as chemotherapy or a thyroid problem. Fortunately your hair will eventually grow back after a course of chemotherapy, and thyroid problems can easily be controlled with the right medications.

What To Do

If you experience hair loss and you are not sure why it is happening, the first thing you should do is make an appointment to see your doctor to determine whether you are suffering from a disease or deficiency. It is also important to make sure you are getting all of the nutrients, vitamins and minerals your body requires for optimal functioning.
There are various hair loss treatments and medications you might like to try. If you are female you should ask your doctor about taking a course of oral contraceptive pills that contain the hormone estrogen, which augments hair growth. If you are male you might want to ask your doctor about a medicine that has the brand name Proscar. Furthermore, a topical solution called Minoxidil can also be a very effective treatment. It's only by trying the various treatments and medications available that you'll discover what works for you.