Hair Loss
Overview
Hair loss refers to the loss of hair from any part of your body, most commonly, the scalp. It is common in both men and women, however it is more common in men.
Causes
The exact cause cannot be pinpointed; however, the following are the most common factors that contribute to hair loss:
- Hereditary
- Use of certain medications
- Hormonal changes
- Certain medical illnesses
Symptoms
The symptoms of this condition may not be as easy to identify as they seem, since the process is so gradual, they might not be apparent until the hair loss has progressed to quite an extent. The following signs and symptoms are associated with hair loss:
- Gradual thinning of hair on top of the head
- Circular or patchy bald spots
- Handfuls of hair suddenly coming out while combing
- Loss of hair on the entire body
- Patches of scaling that spread over the scalp
Diagnosis
Normally, there are no tests conducted for normal balding associated with aging, but in young patients, sudden hair loss can be alarming, and some of the following tests can be conducted to look for the underlying cause:
- Blood tests
- Pull test
- Scalp biopsy
- Light microscopy
Treatment
Some of the following methods are used for the treatment of this condition:
- Medications such as Minoxidil, and Finasteride
- Wigs
- Surgical implantation of hair
