Hair loss: Causes, prevention and treatment
Hair loss can be difficult to cope with. It can affect anyone. However, men are more prone to experiencing hair loss (or baldness) than women. There are many reasons for it including heredity, aging, hormonal imbalance, certain medical conditions and some medications. If you notice unusual and unexplained loss of hair, consult you doctor for underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Here's more.
Heredity: A receding hairline, thinning of hair, or bald spots could simply be consequences of family history (heredity). It occurs gradually with age, and in predictable patterns. Medication: Certain medications, such as those of cancer, arthritis, depression etc. could also lead to hair loss. Stress: A general thinning of hair could be caused, after suffering from a major physically or emotionally stressful event.
Hormonal disturbance: Hormonal changes due to certain medical conditions can also cause hair loss. These include pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid, among others. Certain hairstyles and hair treatment: Excessive hairstyling or certain hairstyles, that pull hair tightly and put extra pressure, can also be the reason for hair loss. Further, hair treatments such as hot oil treatment and permanents could also be the culprit.
Heredity or genetics-induced hair loss cannot be prevented. However, for other, preventable types, follow these tips: 1) Handle your hair with care: Avoid tight hairstyles, like braids, buns and ponytails. Don't indulge in unnecessary pulling or twisting of hair. 2) Avoid consumption of medications that might cause hair loss. 3) Avoid artificial hair treatments such as hot rollers, curling irons, hot oil treatments etc.
4) Be gentle while washing and brushing your hair. For brushing, use a wide-toothed comb to prevent hair loss. 5) Protect your hair from excessive sunlight and other sources of UV light. 6) Get rid of smoking, as studies show it triggers hair loss. Note: If these prevention tips don't work, see your doctor for any serious underlying condition, and take appropriate treatment.
