Ten Causes of Hair Loss
To determine the severity or potential treatment measures, it is important to identify the cause. Below you will find a wide range of possibilities as to why you are losing your hair:
#1 Heredity
The family tree is quite strong and one of the most common causes of hair loss is found in genetics. Androgenetic alopecia surfaces when a mother or father exhibits hair loss (also known as male-pattern hair loss or female-pattern hair loss).
It is through the genes that hair growth is affected, where shrinking follicles cause gradual loss of hair in men or overall thinning of the hair in women. Usually, half of those with inherited hair loss begin to show the effects by the age of 50.
#2 Stress
Both mental and physical stress causes hair loss, which can last for weeks to even months. Usually, the hair will return within a few months. Recent surgery, sickness, or a high fever are just some of the things that may cause a reaction.
#3 Improper Hair Care
Those who make it a habit to tightly pull back their hair, wear tight braids, and display tight ponytails can cause hair loss. This may appear around the edge of the hairline.
Curling irons, dyes, and some hair products may also cause hair loss. It is common for the hair to grow back after tweaking your hair care habits.
#4 Age
As a person ages, their ability to grow hair is altered. Hairs tend to break more easily.
#5 Disease
When a person suffers from a disease, such as syphilis, lupus, or cancer, hair may fall out and depending on the condition – grow back.
#6 Medications
The side effects associated with a variety of medical treatments and medications are known to cause hair loss. This is especially seen in the patient that undergoes chemotherapy or radiation for cancer. Blood thinners may also cause the same response.
For some, hair generally grows back once medication or treatment has been completed.
#7 Poor Nutrition
A diet that lacks protein, iron, or other nutrients may affect the hair. Increasing the amount of vitamins and minerals that the body receives allows hair to return.
Multi-vitamins sometimes help, as well as the addition of certain foods to a diet.
#8 Hormones
In women, hair loss may occur as hormone levels become affected by birth control pills, pregnancy, or a change in their menstrual cycle. Oftentimes, the hair will grow back.
#9 Ringworm
Often seen in children, the presence of ringworm (tinea capitis) of the scalp will cause hair loss.
#10 Trichotillomania
Some people exhibit a compulsive behavior known as trichotillomania, which moves a person to pull hair from their scalp, eyelashes, and eyebrows.
Usually, individuals may use this act as a form of self-release. Noticeable hair loss is often the result.
