Understanding the Cause of Hair Loss

Is hair loss really THAT normal? Hair loss is normal if the hair cycle is going smoothly but if it is disrupted by some factors, it will already be abnormal. Alopecia or baldness is a condition that has no cure. What you can get in the market are only remedies; products and solutions that can prevent further hair loss. In order to discover the right treatment that is suited to your condition, you must understand the cause of hair loss.

The hair cycle is divided into phases; the prominent phases are the dormant and growing phase. When your hair is already in the dormant phase, it will eventually fall off after some time. After the hair falls off, a new hair will grow. Every day, you shed approximately 1000 strands of hair. This is but normal but if new hair doesn’t grow back, you definitely have a problem.

Hair loss can happen to anyone, men and women, young and old. There are various causes of hair loss and it differs from one person to another. In order to discover the cause of your hair loss, you must consult a doctor. For information purposes, here are some of the major causes of hair loss. Familiarize yourself with the causes and if you experience any one of the causes, visit your family doctor immediately.

• Infection

Topical medications can be used if the cause of your hair loss is an infection. Only a licensed doctor can tell if the hair loss is caused by an infection, so don’t disregard your problem.

• Hormones

Pattern baldness is caused by hormones and this can happen to both men and women. If there is a change in the androgen or estrogen levels, hair loss can set in. An under-active or over-active thyroid gland may also be the cause of hair loss. In order to correct the hormonal imbalance, the doctor may give you steroid or hormone injections.

• Illness

If you have a prolonged illness, hair loss may be an effect. Even major surgery and stress can lead to hair loss. This only means that hair loss may be an indication of a certain health condition or illness. You can't prevent hair loss if the illness is left uncured.

• Pregnancy

For women who have just given birth, you may be able to notice hair loss after three to four months of giving birth. Pregnancy is a period wherein hormonal changes take place in high levels. This is only temporary and new hair will grow back again. Styling your hair more often can correct the hair thinning.

• Medicines

Anticoagulants are medicines that can be the reason of your hair loss. If you're taking pills, antidepressants, and excessive vitamin A, then you may suffer from hair loss. If you have cancer and gout and you're undergoing a series of treatments, hair loss may be a side effect.

It pays to familiarize yourself with the causes of hair loss. Treat it as a warning sign so that you can act on the problem immediately and maintain your beautiful hair. Well of course, as you age its but normal to experience thinning of hair. That's part of life and all you can do is to live with it. Know the true cause of hair loss and use the appropriate remedy or treatment to maintain your existing hair, and probably grow some hair back.

About the author: John Tulley manages the Alpha7 Provillus web site with advice and information about the cause of hair loss and how to prevent hair loss.