Nimmi (age 32), an officer at a private bank, came to my clinic last Tuesday evening. She was under severe mental stress.
"Dr. Priya, my hair has been falling out in clumps lately. Not only when I bathe or comb it, but even when I touch it, strands of hair are falling out. Also, in one area of โโmy head, my hair has completely fallen out and I'm bald. I'm afraid that all my hair will fall out and I'll be bald," Nimmi explained her worry with teary eyes.
I examined her scalp and explained: "Nimmi, don't worry. The hair loss on your scalp is due to a condition known in medical science as Alopecia Areata . This is a condition that occurs when our immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles. In addition, there are different types of hair loss, such as Androgenic Alopecia, which is hereditary, and Telogen Effluvium, which is caused by severe stress. Today, we will talk about how each of these types occurs and what the correct treatments are."
๐จ Red Flags that require immediate medical attention
Although hair loss is a common condition, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience the following symptoms:
- Severe itching, pain, peeling skin, or pus on the scalp (this could be a serious fungal or bacterial infection, such as tinea capitis).
- Hair loss not only on the head but also on the eyebrows, eyelashes, and entire body (may be a condition called Alopecia Universalis).
- Unusual weight gain without a reason, frequent extreme fatigue, and inability to tolerate cold (may be signs of an underactive thyroid gland).
- Rapid hair loss from the entire head within a very short period of time (a few days).
The main causes and types of hair loss
It is normal to shed 50-100 hairs per day. However, if more than that is shed and no new hair is growing, it is a medical condition.
1. Genetic Causes (Androgenic Alopecia): This is a hereditary balding condition that affects both men and women. It is mainly caused by the effect of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) . In men, the hairline recedes from the sides of the forehead, while in women, the hairline thins in the middle of the head.
2. Hormonal changes and illnesses: Hair loss occurs due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid problems.
3. Nutritional deficiencies: Hair roots become weak due to deficiencies in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins that the body needs.
4. Side effects of medications: Chemotherapy for cancerHair loss can be a side effect of certain medications taken for treatment, high blood pressure, and mental illness.
5. Wrong hair styles: Traction Alopecia caused by tight ponytails or braids and the use of excessive chemicals (dyes, perms).
6. Mental Disorders: Trichotillomania, a mental illness in which one pulls out one's own hair.
Comparing different treatment methods
| Treatment method | Suitable occasions | How it works | Side effects/limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minoxidil liquid | For male and female Androgenic Alopecia. | Increases blood circulation to the scalp and stimulates hair growth. | You have to continue using it, as if you stop, your hair will fall out again. |
| Finasteride tablets | Only for male pattern baldness. | Inhibits the production of the hormone DHT, which causes hair loss. | Not suitable for women and pregnant mothers. |
| Hair Transplant | In cases of permanent baldness. | Hair follicles from the back of the head are removed and placed in the bald area. | Since it is a surgical procedure, it is very expensive. |
| Nutrition Counseling | When hair falls out due to nutritional deficiencies. | Provide foods or supplements rich in iron, zinc, biotin, and protein. | It takes several months for the body to recover from the deficiency. |
Do's & Don'ts
| โ๏ธ Things to do (Do) | โ Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Use a wide-toothed comb when combing your hair. | Avoid combing wet hair vigorously or rubbing it roughly with a towel (wet hair breaks more easily). |
| Include nutritious eggs, vegetables, fish, and nuts in your daily diet. | Do not use hair straightening, perming, or high-heat tools frequently. |
| When going out in the sun, use an umbrella or hat to protect your hair from ultraviolet (UV) rays. | Avoid pulling your hair tightly and tying it with rubber bands (risk of traction alopecia). |
โ Some other questions you may have (FAQ)
Can changing shampoos frequently cause hair loss? โผ
No, changing shampoos frequently will not cause hair loss. However, using shampoos that contain harsh chemicals (e.g. sulfates) can dry out your hair and make it break easily. Use a mild (pH balanced) shampoo that is suitable for your scalp.
Why does iron deficiency cause hair loss? โผ
The oxygen needed for hair cell growth is carried by hemoglobin in the blood. When iron deficiency (anemia) occurs, the amount of oxygen reaching the hair roots decreases, growth slows down, and hair begins to fall out.
Is hair loss during pregnancy and childbirth permanent? โผ
No, this is a temporary condition. When hormone levels return to normal after pregnancy (usually within 6-12 months after giving birth), hair loss will stop on its own and hair will grow back as before.
Are Natural Remedies for Hair Loss Scientifically Effective? โผ
Although things like aloe vera, coconut oil, or onion juice can help hydrate the scalp, there is not enough scientific evidence to completely control hair loss caused by hormonal or genetic causes (androgenic alopecia). Medical treatment is required for this.
๐ฌ Comments (0)
No comments have been posted yet. Add your comment here for the first time.
Add your comment