Hair loss can be a sign of various conditions, and the symptoms may vary depending on the underlying cause. Here are some potential causes of hair loss:
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Androgenetic alopecia: This is the most common type of hair loss, affecting people as they age. In men, hair often begins to recede at the hairline on the forehead, while women typically have a broadening of the part in their hair. Excess androgens, or male sex hormones, and hormonal imbalances are the most common cause of hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia.
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Alopecia areata: This is a disease that develops when the bodys immune system attacks hair follicles, causing hair loss. It can result in bald patches on the scalp, beard, and eyebrows, and eyelashes may fall out.
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Stress: A few months after giving birth, recovering from an illness, or having an operation, you may notice a lot more hairs in your brush or on your pillow. This can also happen after a stressful time in your life, such as a divorce or death of a loved one. If the stress stops, your body will readjust and the excessive shedding will stop. Hair loss due to stress usually causes overall hair thinning but is temporary.
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Hyperandrogenism: Sometimes hair loss is a sign of a condition called hyperandrogenism, which happens when your body makes too many androgens (male hormones). In women and others with female reproductive organs, its most common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Along with hair loss, other signs of PCOS include weight gain, acne, and irregular periods.
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Scalp infection: A scalp infection can lead to scaly and sometimes inflamed areas on your scalp. You may see what look like small black dots on your scalp. These are actually stubs of hair. Some people develop a bald spot.
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Nutrition: Poor nutrition, including deficiencies in iron, protein, and vitamin D, can lead to hair loss.
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Medications: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy for cancer, can result in the loss of hair all over your body. The hair usually grows back.
Its important to see a doctor if you are distressed by persistent hair loss and want to pursue treatment.
