Hair fall can occur due to a variety of reasons, including genetic, hormonal, medical, and lifestyle factors:
- Genetics and Aging: The most common cause is hereditary hair loss, known as androgenetic alopecia or male/female pattern baldness. This condition is genetic and usually develops gradually with age, causing receding hairlines and bald spots in men and thinning hair in women
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations from pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid problems can lead to temporary or permanent hair loss
- Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata cause patchy hair loss by attacking hair follicles. Other conditions include scalp infections (e.g., ringworm), thyroid disorders, and severe illnesses or surgeries
- Medications and Treatments: Certain drugs for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure can cause hair loss. Radiation therapy to the head also impacts hair growth
- Stress and Physical Shock: Emotional stress or physical trauma such as major surgery or sudden blood loss can trigger temporary hair thinning, known as telogen effluvium
- Hairstyles and Hair Treatments: Excessive hairstyling, tight hairstyles (like braids, ponytails), hot-oil treatments, and chemical permanents can cause traction alopecia, a form of hair loss due to pulling and damage
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, such as iron or biotin, can contribute to hair loss
- Other Causes: Infections, autoimmune diseases, obesity-related stress, and exposure to toxins or poisons (arsenic, mercury, lithium) can also cause hair loss
In summary, hair fall results from a complex interplay of hereditary factors, hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications, stress, hair care practices, and nutritional status. Identifying the specific cause is essential for appropriate treatment
