Hair loss is more common than you may think. While men are more likely to experience hair loss than women, there are lots of women that encounter hair loss and thinning hair. This can be incredibly difficult, yet there is treatment available. The course of treatment you choose will depend on the reason you are experiencing hair loss. So, let’s take a look at the many different reasons why people lose their hair…
Aging – No, hair loss does not mean that you are old! However, it is not uncommon to see thinning hair and hair loss in people once they enter their 50s and 60s. If your hair loss is simply due to the natural process of aging, cosmetic approaches are the best solution. Talk to your hairdresser and see if they can give you a style that will cover up any thin spots. Don’t be embarrassed; this is something they will be helping other people with all of the time.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – This is a condition whereby this is an imbalance in female and sex hormones. It can cause a number of different symptoms, from infertility and weight gain to ovarian cysts. And, yes, you guessed it; hair thinning is another symptom. Treating PCOS can reverse some of these changes. Treating often includes a better diet and exercise.
Trichotillomania – This is an impulse control disorder, whereby the individual pulls their hair out compulsively. This tends to begin before the age of 17, and women are four times more likely to experience this than men. If you have trichotillomania, don’t try to self-manage the problem. You should see a doctor, as they may advise behavioral modification therapy or put you on a cause of antidepressants.
Dramatic weight loss – Thinning hair can also be the consequence of a sudden and dramatic weight loss, as this is considered a type of physical trauma for the body. This is especially the case if your weight loss has not been healthy and, as a result, you have mineral or vitamin deficiencies. Although you have experienced hair loss, this should correct itself if it is down to sudden weight loss. Your body has simply had a bit of a shock, and this is how it has reacted.
Over styling – Vigorous hair treatments and hair styling over the years can result in your hair falling out. If you have used chemical relaxers on your hair, hot-oil treatments, or you have worn your hair in tight braids for many years; your hair might not grow back because these practices can impact the hair root. If it is too late to simply give up these practices as a solution, you may want to consider a hair transplant procedure. A lot of people turn to a hair transplant when they start to lose their hair, getting their confidence back in the process too.
Vitamin B deficiency – Low levels of vitamin B can be attributed to hair loss. In fact, a lot of people actually suffer from vitamin B deficiency. Luckily, this is something that can easily be rectified with a few lifestyle changes. You should try to incorporate natural vitamin B into your diet through non-citrus fruits, starchy vegetables, meat, and fish. Of course, you can also take vitamin B supplements too.
Hypothyroidism – This is the medical word for having a thyroid gland that is underactive. Your thyroid is situated in your neck, and it has the purpose of creating hormones that are imperative for your development, growth, and metabolism. Hair loss can happen if your thyroid is not pumping out enough hormones. Visiting a doctor is advised, as they will be able to determine if you have an underactive thyroid. If so, they will then prescribe you with the medication that is needed to treat the problem.
Stress – Stress can cause many different illnesses and changes in our bodies. Both emotional and physical stress can result in hair loss, although emotional stress is much more likely to result in hair loss. If you are going through a difficult time, from the loss of a loved one to financial troubles, the stress can take its toll. It will not start off hair loss, but it can exacerbate the issue if it is already there. There have not been any studies to determine whether reducing stress can reduce hair loss. However, it certainly would not hurt, would it? After all, stress can have so many negative impacts, and so getting it under control is a good idea.
Lack of protein – Last but not least, another reason why you may be suffering from hair loss is because you are not getting enough protein in your diet. There have been studies that have shown that your hair growth may shut down if your body is not getting the protein it needs. After a drop in protein intake, hair loss can occur around two or three months later. Luckily, this is another issue that is very easy to rectify, as protein can be added to the diet to stop this from occurring. Some of the best sources of protein include eggs, meat, and fish, so simply make a few diet changes.
As you can see, there are so many different reasons why people suffer from hair loss. Some reasons can be avoided, others cannot, but hopefully, you now have some answers to why you could be experiencing hair loss. Rather than second-guessing, though, the best thing is to book an appointment with your doctor so they can shed further light on what you are going through.
