Hair loss reasons

Did you know that the American Academy of Dermatology has declared August as National Hair Loss Awareness Month? Gives us the perfect opportunity to discuss some lesser known and surprising reasons behind hair loss.

According to a recent report by the organization, almost 80 million people across America alone, suffer from some form of hereditary hair loss. However, apart from this, there are many other reasons that might contribute to hair loss. For instance, losing 20-50 strands per day while combing or washing is quite normal, but more than 100 strands per day is a sign of early balding.

Excessive usage of low quality and chemical heavy hair dyes and styling equipments: While hair styling in terms of blow drying and moderate hair product use is okay, excessive use will make your hair brittle and damage it for the long run. This leads to greater hair fall. However, luckily, the damage caused by them can be reversed by taking proper care. Be wise about choosing hair products and treatments.

Tight hairstyle: We agree that tight hairstyles like braids and weaves are in vogue currently. But remember that these hairstyles may damage your hair due to a condition called traction alopecia. The prime areas of hair loss in this condition are around the temples and at the sides of the head.

Hair loss triggered by Menopause: A number of researches have suggested that hair loss is a common symptom of menopause. However, unlike alopecia, hair loss in peri menopausal women does not lead to complete baldness. A major reason for this is emotional stress, anxiety or fatigue. Apart from this, hormonal imbalance during this stage may also contribute to this condition. Hence, the best way to manage this is by maintaining the hormonal balance particularly the estrogen hormone balance.

Alopecia areata: This medical condition is characterized by appearance of bald spots on the scalp. This may be either complete baldness or spot baldness. This auto-immune disease can affect men, women and children equally.

Major weight loss: According to the American Hair Loss Council, sudden and rapid weight loss may be associated with hair loss. Usually, this form of hair loss self-corrects and does not require much attention. However, it is the hair loss associated with eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia that is more concerning. This is because such eating habits prevent the body from acquiring the nutrients and vitamins required for healthy hair.

Thyroid disease: Thyroid imbalance in the body is another major cause of hair loss. Both decrease (hypothyroidism) and increase (hyperthyroidism) in the average thyroid level can lead to excessive hair loss. Hence, during such cases, the thyroid imbalance should be immediately treated.

Trauma or excessive stress: Yes, you heard right! Both trauma and stress can lead to excessive hair loss. However, the good news is that such form of hair loss can be treated successfully in a period of about six to twelve months.

Illness triggered hair loss: If you have cross checked all the other causes mentioned above and still have not found the reason for your hair loss, you should probably get yourself thoroughly examined. Very often, high fever and such other ailments may trigger this condition.