Hair loss is among the most common condition diagnosed and treated by dermatologists. Common hair loss symptoms include gradual thinning of hair, bald spots appearing, and receding hairline, among many others. Depending on the cause, hair loss can come with several other symptoms such as itching, burning or stinging sensation, redness, swelling, and scaling on the scalp. Below are some causes of hair loss in adults.
Genetics
Genetics is the most common hair loss cause, which affects both men and women. The medical term for this type of hair loss is androgenic alopecia. The signs of androgenic alopecia can start from as early as the teen years. It causes the hair follicles to shrink gradually and stop growing hair. It is possible to slow down and even regrow hair lost due to genetics with proper treatment. The earlier androgenic alopecia is treated, the more likely it is to work.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata refers to a medical condition in which your immune system attacks your hair follicles and results in hair loss. The condition can cause hair loss in any body part, including the scalp and inside your ears and nose. You can even lose your eyelashes and eyebrows. In most cases, the hair usually grows back on its own. However, treatment may help to stimulate and speed up the regrowth process.
Cancer Treatment
Cancer patients usually experience severe hair loss. That is usually caused by radiotherapy or chemotherapy used to treat cancer. It takes only a few weeks to lose hair on almost all parts of your body after you start the treatment process. Hair can begin growing back within a few months once you complete the treatment process. You can also get medication from your dermatologist, which will help hair to grow back faster.
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal changes can also cause hair loss, especially in women. The most common causes of hormonal changes are thyroid problems, menopause, pregnancy, and childbirth. Using birth control pills can also result in the issue. Hair regrowth is usually possible with a hair transplant in most cases and occurs when the hormonal changes reverse to normal.
Poor Hair Care
Coloring and relaxing your hair are good examples of hair care that can result in hair loss. Any haircare treatment that can cause thinning or breakage can lead to significant hair loss. Regrowth is usually possible if the hair follicle is not damaged.
