Causes of Hair Loss
As people age their hair naturally tends to get thinner. However; other causes of permanent and temporary hair loss may include hormonal issues, medical conditions or reactions to medications.
Hormonal Changes
The most common cause of hair loss in men is called male pattern baldness which is a hereditary condition that is triggered by hormones. This type of hair loss is permanent. Although most common in men, this condition can also occur in women.
While there are many known causes for premature or temporary hair loss, hormonal changes are the most common cause for this condition in women. For example, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can cause temporary hair loss. Fortunately, hormonal imbalances that cause this type of hair loss are usually temporary and easily treated.
Medical Conditions
There are several medical conditions that can cause hair loss, including:
Thyroid Disease – your thyroid secretes hormones that regulate your metabolism. Hair loss can occur if your thyroid is not functioning properly.
Alopecia Areata – is a disease that causes your body’s immune system to attack hair follicles. Hair loss usually appears as round smooth patches.
Lupus –is a chronic disease in which the body’s own immune system attacks healthy tissues.
Iron Deficiency – is a condition resulting from too little iron in the body and is the leading cause of anemia
Skin Conditions – An unhealthy scalp can cause inflammation that makes it difficult for hair to grow. Skin conditions that lead to hair loss include dandruff, psoriasis, and fungal infections such as ringworm.
Medications
Medications to treat disease may cause your body to lose hair. For example, chemotherapy often results in hair loss. Certain drugs used for the treatment of arthritis, depression, cardiac problems and blood pressure can also cause hair loss.
Other Causes of Hair Loss
Other causes of hair loss include:
- extreme stress
- physical trauma
- intense illness
- dramatic weight loss