Hair Loss: Diagnosis and Treatments in Cape Town
It is common for people to lose a small portion of their hair daily as part of the hair’s normal growth cycle. Generally, the lost hair grows back. But the problem arises when people start losing hair because of hormonal changes, illness, stress, and other genetic conditions. The hair loss due to the aforementioned factor does not usually come back and result in baldness. Hair loss can occur to all types of people irrespective of their age, including children. However, it is more common in older people. In this well detailed and well-researched blog, we will explain in detail what hair loss is, its causes, diagnosis, and hair loss treatments you can take at Prime Health Centre Cape Town. What is Hair Loss? Hair loss is the thinning or shedding of hair from the scalp or body, which can be temporary or permanent. According to a study mentioned by Cleveland Clinic, most people lose 100 strands of their hair per day. This is a common phenomenon and nothing to worry about. Because these hairs grow back as a part of the normal hair growth cycle. On average, we have almost 100,000 hairs on our head as mentioned by Health Line. Hair Loss can occur to your scalp, and also sometimes the entire body. Sometimes it is temporary while other times it is permanent. What are Signs or Symptoms of Hair Loss? Hair loss can occur in many different ways. It usually depends on what is causing the hair loss. Below we will have a look into the different signs and symptoms of hair loss. 1. Thinning Hair Gradual thinning on the top of the head is a common sign. 2. Bald Patches Small, round, or patchy areas of hair loss may appear. 3. Receding Hairline A receding hairline, especially in men, is a noticeable symptom. 4. Excessive Shedding Finding more hair than usual on your pillow, brush, or shower drain. 5. Itchy or Scalp Pain An itchy or painful scalp can accompany hair loss. 6. Clumps of Hair Sudden loss of hair in clumps during brushing or washing. 7. Full-Body Hair Loss Some conditions cause hair loss not just on the scalp but across the body. 8. Brittle Hair Hair that breaks easily or feels dry and brittle. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. What are different types of hair loss? As mentioned above, some types of hair loss are temporary while others are permanent. The most common type of hair loss that occurs in people includes: 1. Androgenic alopecia Androgenic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness. Androgenic alopecia is the result of genetic conditions. It causes gradual hair thinning, receding hairlines in men, and diffuse thinning in women. 2. Alopecia areata Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that leads to sudden, patchy hair loss. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. 3. Telogen effluvium Telogen effluvium is a temporary hair loss condition triggered by stress, illness, or hormonal changes. It causes excessive shedding as hair prematurely enters the resting phase of the growth cycle. 4. Telogen effluvium Anagen effluvium is rapid hair loss caused by damage to hair follicles during the growth phase. This occurs often due to chemotherapy or radiation. It typically leads to sudden and widespread hair loss across the scalp and body. 5. Traction Alopecia Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by prolonged tension or pulling on the hair. It often results from tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, or extensions. It can lead to thinning or bald patches, especially along the hairline or temples. What are the causes of hair loss? Hair loss can occur due to multiple reasons. The most common causes of hair loss are explained below: 1. Hereditary Hair Loss (Genetics) Hereditary hair loss, also known as androgenic alopecia, is caused by genes inherited from your parents. It leads to gradual thinning, receding hairlines in men, and diffuse thinning in women. 2. Fungal Infections on the Scalp Fungal infections like ringworm can cause hair loss by damaging hair follicles. Proper treatment with antifungal medications can help restore hair growth. 3. Tight Hairstyles (Traction Alopecia) Hairstyles like braids, ponytails, or extensions that pull on the hair can cause traction alopecia. Over time, this tension can lead to permanent hair loss. 4. Damaging Hair Care Practices Chemical treatments like perms, bleach, or excessive heat styling can weaken hair. This damage can result in breakage and thinning over time. 5. Hormonal Changes Hormonal shifts during pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause can trigger temporary hair loss. Balancing hormones often helps restore normal hair growth. 6. Medical Treatments Chemotherapy and certain medications can cause hair loss by disrupting the hair growth cycle. Hair typically regrows after treatment ends. 7. Nutritional Deficiencies A lack of essential nutrients like iron or protein can lead to hair thinning. Improving your diet or taking supplements can help reverse this. 8. Stressful Events Physical or emotional stress, such as surgery or grief, can push hair into the shedding phase. This type of hair loss is usually temporary. 9. Thyroid Disease Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can disrupt the hair growth cycle. Managing thyroid levels with medication can help reduce hair loss. How is hair loss diagnosed? 1. Medical History Your doctor will ask about your health, family history, and lifestyle. 2. Physical Exam They will check your scalp for patterns of hair loss or skin issues. 3. Pull Test Gently pull on your hair to see how much comes out. 4. Blood Tests To check for issues like thyroid problems or nutrient deficiencies. 5. Scalp Biopsy Taking a small scalp sample to examine under a microscope. 6. Dermoscopy Using a special tool to closely look at your scalp and hair. 7. Hormone Tests To see if hormonal imbalances are causing hair loss. These steps help find the cause and plan the right treatment. How to treat hair loss? The best treatment for hair loss depends