I just wanted to let my readers know about a new site I just found for those suffering from Alopecia. It is a great community type site where you can meet and share information with others suffering from the condition. Find tips, find friends, find answers!
While there are many potential causes for hair loss in women, only the 5 of the most common are listed in this article.
The majority of women with unexplained hair loss have been searching for a solution to their situation for months or years! First the visit their Primary Care Physicians, then the dermatologists, endocrinologists, gynecologists, nutritionists, frichnologists, and even psychologists – anyone who might provide the one clue which would reverse the problem!
Hereditary Hair Loss
This is the most common cause of hair loss where the hair is genetically programmed to gradually fall out. Occurring in 1 out of 5 women, the condition is also known as Female Pattern Hair Loss and it’s technical name is Androgenetic Alopecia. Hair loss usually occurs at menopause, although it can start at any age.
Stress
As is we needed another side effect of stress! It can trigger hair loss whether people are predestined to lose hair or not. When stress causes hair loss, its effects are not usually permanent. In women who do have hereditary hair loss stress can actually speed up the process. Examples of severe stress are: loss of a loved one, strenuous sports, training, severe illness or drastic weight loss.
Hormonal Changes
Hormones can also play a part in a women’s hair loss. When an unusually large hormonal change occurs, women may experience some noticeable thinning, but generally this fallout is not enough to cause total hair loss. Hormone imbalances can occur during or after pregnancy, menopause or discontinuation of birth control pills. Hair loss caused by fluctuating hormones is usually not permanent and generally hair will grow back within approximately 6-12 months, however in some people, this can lead to permanent hair loss.
Chemotherapy Drugs and Radiation Treatments
Chemotherapy drugs designed to seek out cancer cells also temporarily damage the hair follicles and will often result in total hair loss. Hair loss from chemotherapy treatments will start approximately 2-3 weeks after first dose of chemotherapy, but won’t result in total hair loss until 1-2 months have elapsed. Hair loss is reversible and will be back in about 3-4 months after the last chemotherapy dose. Hair on the head is most commonly affected. The scalp may become tender and hair that is still growing may become dull and dry.
While there are too many reasons for hair to fall out in both men and women, you have read some of the most common. A search for “hair loss” on Google will lead to many other possibilities not listed here.
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