Find out what may be causing excessive hair loss.
There are everyday things that may cause some easily preventable hair loss. The way you wash, brush and take care of your hair could be a cause. To prevent this type of hair loss you shouldn't keep hair pulled back tightly, use curling irons, or dryers. Wet hair is quite fragile. You should not brush your hair when wet, or rub with a towel. Apply a conditioner before you brush to prevent pulling hair out when brushing. Your diet may also have an affect on your hair. If you have a poor diet, you may experience hair loss as a result. Not enough iron can also cause hair loss. A well-balanced diet, and a daily multivitamin can easily reduce your risk of hair loss due to a lack of nutrients.
A surgery or illness may also cause excessive hair loss about 2-3 months afterwards. This is normal, and is caused by the stress of the surgery or illness. It is only temporary.
There are many things that can cause hair loss. The most common is known as Androgenetic Alopecia, or Male/Female Pattern Baldness. Hormones, genes, and age can also be factors in hair loss.
Male/Female Pattern Baldness:
This is an inherited trait that runs in the family. It is also caused by hormones, particularly an excess amount of testosterone. Hair follicles narrow, and the hair becomes increasingly thinner, shorter and even loses some pigment until the follicle dies. Men will lose their hair on the top, and experience a receding hair line. Women will experience thinning hair all over. When hair loss occurs at an early age, the hair loss will be more severe.
Ringworm of the Scalp:
Another cause of hair loss can be attributed to ringworm of the scalp, or tinea capitis. It is common in children. It's a fungal infection that grows in the hair as well as on the scalp. It can appear to look like worms, although it is not caused by worms. It is contagious, and can be spread by contact with someone who has it.
Age:
As we age, our hair doesn't grow as much as it used to. It also becomes thinner and more brittle.
Hormones:
If your thyroid gland is under or over active, it may cause hair loss. An imbalance in your hormones androgens or estrogens may also cause hair loss. If you think this may be a problem, make an appointment with your doctor. They can check your hormone levels, and prescribe the necessary treatment. With treatment, the hair loss should subside.
About three months following a pregnancy, many women experience excessive hair loss due to high levels of hormones. This occurs when hormone levels normalize, and will be temporary. Hair growth will return to normal.
Lupus or diabetes can also cause hair loss. It's important to find the cause with the help of your doctor, because it could be serious. It could also be caused by some medications, and when halted, hair growth returns to normal. If you have signs of excessive hair loss, check with your doctor to have some simple tests done to find the exact cause.
