Hair loss or hair fall is one of the most common conditions suffered by many adult men and some women. While age and genetics in pattern baldness may cause hair loss, there are many factors that can lead to losing hair in unusual amounts. It’s important to explore some of the common causes of why you’re losing hair and find ways to address them accordingly.
Alopecia Areata
This is a common autoimmune disorder that often results in hair loss. It affects over 6 billion people in the United States and oftentimes the hair falls out in patches creating uneven random bald spots on the head. This condition happens usually before the age of 30 and can affect anyone regardless of gender.
This condition takes place when white blood cells attack hair follicles which causes them to shrink and obstruct hair production. Scientists are still unsure why this happens but it points to genetics as someone who has a close family member with the disorder will likely lose their hair too at some point. The most effective known treatment for alopecia areata is corticosteroids, a strong anti-inflammatory drug, which can suppress reactions of the immune system.
Alopecia Totalis
An advanced form of alopecia areata, where there is a total loss of hair on the scalp. People suffering from this disorder may feel itching, soreness, and discomfort similar to having a ponytail tied too tight. Aside from hair loss, there are no other symptoms of alopecia totalis.
There is also no known treatment and sometimes the body just recovers from it. While 1 out of 5 people in Nevada and in the States suffer some form of alopecia, it is uncommon for them to develop into this type of disorder which makes it more painful for those who are affected. But not everything is lost for those who go bald, Brian flew from California and underwent scalp micropigmentation in Las Vegas seeking an artist with patience and dedication for his clients. Since the process is like fine tattoos, dedication and artistry are needed to create a natural look where no one can tell if something had been done.
Medications and Treatment
Medication and some treatments can cause hair to fall out. It includes blood thinners, chemotherapy, antidepressants, beta-blockers, and others. Although many times your scalp just bounces back and hair grows back when you stop taking the medication, it can be difficult when you need to those medications regularly for a long time. It’s also plausible to consult with your doctor so that they can change the dosage or give you a different option to address the hair loss.
Lifestyle Factors
Stress and other factors in your life can affect your mental well-being which can physiologically manifest as hair loss. Prolonged stress can raise the levels of cortisol, a hormone that triggers your fight or flight response, which can negatively impact your hair growth cycle. It also affects nutrition absorption which also leads to slowing down of hair development. Along with removing stress or coping with it, you may want to supplement your omega-3 and antioxidants. Your diet can also affect your mental and physical condition so have a balanced diet with protein and iron which helps in hair growth.
There are other causes of hair loss and it’s always better to consult your doctor when you notice abnormal amounts of hair on your shower drain or on your brush. They’ll be able to advise you on the necessary steps to reverse the effects, prevent further aggravation, or help you manage your expectations with your hairline.