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Overview
Just as men experience hair loss as they age, women can as well. For women however, it can be much more difficult to deal with. The first step in slowing your hair loss or preventing further hair loss is determining the culprit behind it. There are many causes of hair loss in older women, from genetics to poor nutrition. It is important that you see your doctor in order to determine what is causing your hair loss. This way you can ensure that the hair loss is not due to a serious condition. You and your doctor can also discuss what treatment options may be available.
Genetics
Hair loss in older women may be hereditary. Androgenetic alopecia is the medical term for genetic hair loss in women. It is similar to genetic hair loss in men, except that in women it does not cause receding hair lines or total baldness. It simply causes a general thinning of the hair all over the head. The hair loss caused by alopecia is permanent.
Hormonal Problems
Hormonal changes are often the most common cause of hair loss in older women. One hormonal cause of hair loss is thyroid problems. Both an underactive and an overactive thyroid can cause your hair to fall out. Another cause of hair loss may be menopause, because your estrogen levels change. Any other hormone problem that causes female estrogen level to be out of balance, can cause hair loss. Typically in the case of hormonal problems, correcting the hormonal imbalance can stop or slow hair loss.
Underlying Condition
Sometimes hair loss can be a sign of diabetes or lupus. Autoimmune disorders may cause a type of hair loss called alopecia areata. This particular kind of hair loss causes hair to fall out in patches. This condition is not as well understood, and hair loss is sometimes temporary and other times long-term. Hair loss may be an early sign of one of many possible underlying conditions. That's why you should see your doctor in order to determine the cause, and receive the correct diagnosis.
Poor Nutrition
Just like the rest of your body, your hair needs the proper nutrients in order to grow properly and maintain its health. If your diet does not include enough nutrients like fatty acids, vitamins, iron, or protein, it may be contributing to your hair loss. If poor nutrition is the cause of your hair loss, it is easily remedied by eating a healthy and balanced diet.
Medicine
There are certain medications that can cause hair loss in older women. Some of those medicines include: blood thinning medication, gout medication, cholesterol medication, thyroid medication, blood pressure medication and antidepressants. Another cause of hair loss may be an excess of vitamin A.
