Hair loss is a problem that is common to all irrespective of race or culture. Mild hair loss is not that obnoxious,
but hair loss in excessive may require proper medical attention. There are many causes of hair loss and several factors may contribute to excessive hair loss. In this article, we will explore some of the major causes of hair loss.
HeredityHeredity factors are the first among them. The most common type of hair loss is Androgenetic alopecia that refers to the predisposition of baldness. However, the role of heredity in hair loss is not simple. The genetic propensity along with the prevalence of androgen hormone and ageing plays an important role in developing baldness.
Hormonal DysfunctionHormonal dysfunction may lead to premature hair loss. Many important hormones are secreted from thyroid gland. Individuals having hyperactive or less active thyroid gland may experience hair loss problems. Such type of hair loss problem can be solved with thyroid treatment. The imbalance occurred in sex hormones, androgens and estrogens, is also believed to be one of the major causes of hair loss. Many women experience hair loss problems during pregnancy as well as prior and post delivery stages. This all occurs due to hormonal imbalance within the body system.
Psychological FactorsStress is an important factor responsible for hair loss. According to several studies, if someone is not experiencing any apparent factors that may contribute to hair loss, but is undergoing through stress, he or she may experience hair loss problems. Essentially, stress is related to two types of hair loss problems – Telogen effluvium and Alopecia areata. Apart from that, psychological dysfunction may contribute to hair loss such as trichotillomania.
Major IllnessSeveral times, some major illnesses such as typhoid, malaria also results in excessive hair loss. If someone undergoes through chemotherapy, it results in remarkable hair loss, and in most of the cases, it is incurable also. Apart from that, surgical intervention is also considered as one of the major causes of hair loss. A temporary condition for hair loss may be induced due to stressors experienced at the time of illness.
MedicationThere are some particular medicines that promote hair loss. However, in most of the cases, this is temporary. When you stop taking that particular medicine promoting hair loss, the problem alleviates. Blood thinners or anticoagulants, gout medicines, chemotherapy, steroids, interferon, excessive amount of vitamin A, birth control pills and antidepressants are the medications that are considered as the causes of hair loss.
Fungal InfectionDifferent types of fungal infections may also be responsible for your hair loss. It is quite common in children to see hair loss problems due to fungal infection on the scalp area. However, such type of fungal infection can be treated using antifungal medications.
Improper Hair CareSometimes improper hair care can also contribute to hair loss, hence it can be considered as one of the main causes of hair loss. If you tie your wet hair or pull your hair with tight hair rollers, you may experience traction alopecia, a type of hair loss. Chemical treatment associated with permanents, also known as ‘perms’, may also cause hair loss to some people, leading to experience scarring and inflammation on the affected areas.
Internal Health DiseasesCertain diseases like lupus or diabetes may also cause hair loss problems. In these cases, hair loss is considered as one of the early warning signs of the diseases. So if you are loosing your hair without any apparent reason, it is always advisable that do not neglect the situation and immediately consult for guidance from expert health practitioners.
I hope I have covered all the major causes of hair loss. So, take care of your hair and live a stress free healthy life.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
