Causes of a Sudden Loss of a Large Mass of Hair

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an unexpected and unexplained loss of hair which results in bare patches of smooth skin. This occurs in both adults and children and is usually temporary. The hair loss may last a few weeks but should leave no lasting indication of recurring baldness. There are topical and oral medications that are available that may help to regrow hair. Alopecia sometimes occurs during pregnancy because of the massive amounts of nutrients that the mother's body transfers to the fetus.

Hair Loss Due to Medication

Hair that is lost in large amounts may be a result of some forms of medication. Most chemo-based drugs have hair loss as a major side effect. Hair usually starts to regrow soon after the treatments end. Birth control pills can also cause hair loss. This does not happen with everyone, but it should be known that it can be a direct side effect. Women taking birth control pills may notice a substantial amount of hair loss up to six months after stopping their use. Consult your gynecologist if you notice your hair thinning or falling out. Your prescription can be changed to possibly stop any further loss.

Inadequate Nutrition

Low levels of protein and iron in the diet may also result in hair loss. If there is not enough protein in the diet, the body will force the hair into a resting phase. After a few months the hair will begin to fall out or shed. Adding adequate amounts of protein to the diet will reverse the effect and the hair growth will return to normal. Iron deficiency due to large loss of blood can trigger hair loss. Women who have abnormally heavy periods can experience some degree of hair loss. Adding iron to the diet can help to reduce this loss.

Chronic Illness

Chronic illness is a known culprit behind hair loss. An underactive thyroid will cause the body's rejuvination processes to slow down. This includes slowing down the growth of hair. Your physician can help you figure out if this is the cause and can treat the symptoms so that there is no further hair loss. Illnesses that are accompanied by high fever or a prolonged low-grade fever may result in some degree of hair loss. This will usually correct itself as the body's health improves.

Stress Management

When the body is put under large amounts of stress, it can react in a variety of ways. Hair loss is not common due to stress, but it does occur. Stress depletes the body of vital nutrients, including B vitamins, folic acid, iron and protein. All of these nutrients are essential in the formation of muscle, tissue, hair and bone. Learning how to reduce your stress and learning how to cope with the stress you experience on a daily basis will allow your body to regroup and maintain balance.