Alopecia Areata Support Group

Hair Loss Can Occur At Any Age

Hair loss can occur for many reasons at it can occur at any age.

Hair loss can be the result of heredity baldness, as a result of using certain medications or it can be the result of a medical condition. Men, women and children have experienced hair loss.

Some people find baldness beautiful while others are embarrassed or upset by hair loss.

Hair loss can be treated with medications or by surgical procedures. Wigs can be worn to cover hair loss. There are many options for treatment of hair loss.

The medical term for hair loss is "alopecia". There are both temporary and permanent hair loss. Hair loss can occur on any part of the body including the scalp.

Male-pattern baldness, female-pattern baldness and Cicatricial alopecia are all permanent hair loss situations.

Alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, and traction alopecia are all temporary hair loss. Most hair loss associated with medications is also temporary.

Poor nutrition can cause hair loss.

Diabetes and lupus can cause hair loss.

Individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation often have hair loss.

Hormonal changes can trigger imbalances, which can cause temporary hair loss.

The use of hair treatments can cause hair loss due to the chemicals used such as dying, tinting, bleaching, permanent waves or straightening.

Scalp infections such as ringworm can cause hair loss.

Individuals suffering from trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder) can suffer hair loss.

If sudden or patchy hair loss occurs see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

If you suffer from permanent hair loss there is no cure and the hair won't return naturally. There are medical treatments for hair loss so be sure to speak with your doctor for advice and options.

The doctor may order the following tests when you are seen for hair loss:

Pull test

Skin Scrapings

Punch Biopsy

Screening tests for other medical conditions

Medications commonly used for hair loss include Minoxidil (Rogaine), Finasteride (Propecia), Corticosteroids, and Anthralin (Dritho-Scalp).

Surgery is another option including hair transplants and scalp reduction.

Wigs and hairpieces are used to cover baldness for both temporary and permanent hair loss.

To avoid some types of hair loss make sure you eat a balanced nutritious diet, avoid wearing tight hairstyles, avoid chemicals and harsh hair treatments, avoid pulling, twisting or rubbing hair and always ask about side effects before taking any medication.

Individuals with permanent hair loss and even those with temporary hair loss may find comfort from joining a support group. Support groups are also a good resource for finding new treatments for hair loss.

Source:

Mayo Clinic Hair Loss http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hair-loss/DS00278/DSECTION=coping%2Dand%2Dsupport