Can Hair Loss be a Sign of Something Serious?

Serious hair loss conditions in men and women

While it is common to lose between 100-150 hairs every day, excessive or sudden hair loss could be an indication of an underlying health issue.

In most cases, hair loss is down to androgenic alopecia (male/female pattern baldness), but this isn't always the case. There are other factors that could be causing the hair to fall out, and some of them could be quite serious.

Here are some possible causes of hair loss that could be a sign of something serious:

Autoimmune disorders

Conditions like lupus, alopecia areata, and thyroid disorders can cause hair loss. If the hair is falling out in patches, in random areas of the scalp, then this this is likely to be a more serious issue.

Nutritional deficiencies

Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, or other important nutrients can cause hair loss. If you are experiencing thinning hair across the scalp, then it would be wise to see a doctor, for a check up. They will be able to identify if you are lacking in certain nutrients.

Hormonal imbalances

Hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can cause hair loss. Again, seek advice from your doctor to establish if this is the case.

Scalp infections

Scalp infections like ringworm can cause hair loss. Scalp infections are actually a common cause of hair fall, and one that can be easily identified. Act early to avoid the issue getting worse, and seek the right treatments to minimise the damage.

Medications

Certain medications like chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, and antidepressants can cause hair loss as a side effect. Hair loss preventive medications like minoxidil can also cause excessive shedding, so be sure to ease into any medications, or seek safer alternatives.

Stress

Stress can cause hair loss in some people. If fact, stress is said to be one of the main causes of hair fall, in both men and women. Look for ways to destress, in order to minimise the hair loss. Meditation and excessive are two good ways to destressing. A healthy diet is also effective for reducing stress levels.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing hair loss, it is important to consult with a doctor to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Once you know what is causing your hair to fall out, the better placed you'll be to get the most effective treatment.

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