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Test For Hair Loss


Overview

Hair loss (also known as alopecia) is a common problem, and can affect just scalp or entire body. Hair loss can occur in different patterns, depending on the cause. It can affect both men and women, and also children.

It can be the result of heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions or medications. It is triggered by a variety of factors from diet to your DNA’s composition.

  • Predetermined genetic factors and the overall aging process
  • Life vicissitudes including illness, emotional trauma IQ, protein deprivation (during strict dieting), and hormonal changes like those in pregnancy, puberty, and menopause
  • Several health conditions, including thyroid disease and iron deficiency anemia IQ
  • Certain medications like cancer drugs, blood pressure medication, beta-blockers, antidepressants and mood stabilizers, hormones, steroids
  • Cosmetic procedures
  • Autoimmune disease
  • Burns, injuries and x-rays
  • Radiation therapy

Hair loss can appear in many different ways, depending on what’s causing it. It can come suddenly or gradually. Signs and symptoms of hair loss may include:

  • Gradual thinning on top of head
  • Circular or patchy bald spots
  • Sudden loosening of hair
  • Full-body hair loss
  • Patches of scaling that spread over the scalp
  • Involutional alopecia – natural condition in which the hair gradually thins with age
  • Androgenic alopecia – genetic condition affect both men and women
  • Alopecia areata – often starts suddenly and causes patchy hair loss in children and young adults
  • Alopecia universalis – causes all body hair to fall out
  • Trichotillomania – a psychological disorder; person pulls out one’s own hair
  • Telogen effluvium – temporary hair thinning over the scalp
  • Scarring alopecias – permanent loss of hair

Preventive Measures

    • Good nutrition might be key. Adequate levels of nutrients like iron, vitamin B, protein, vitamin D, and calcium. Essential fatty acids like omega-3 can be very helpful. Also, treatment of underlying medical conditions like thyroid disease, anemia, and hormonal imbalances may be very useful in prevention.
    • Eat a nutritionally balanced diet
    • Choose products wisely
    • Brush properly
    • Avoid tight hairstyles, such as braids, buns or ponytails
    • Avoid compulsively twisting, rubbing or pulling your hair
    • Treat your hair gently when washing and brushing
    • Avoid harsh treatments such as hot rollers, curling irons, hot oil treatments and permanents.
    • Manage stress level
    • Be careful with medication intake (side effects of drugs)

Diagnosis

  • Hair Analysis
  • Doctor will take sample of hair and examine it under a microscope (a scalp sample might also be taken)
  • Diagnosis based on medical history, the medications, nutritional status, hairdressing habits
  • Physical examination
  • Blood tests
  • In case of medical illness (such as lupus) or a thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism), iron deficiency or sex-hormone imbalance
  • Diet and exercise
  • Avoid chemical treatments
  • Oiling
  • Regular trimming
  • Lifestyle: Manage stress levels, adequate sleep, and healthy diet

Hair loss

i. Does nutritional deficiency cause hair loss?+
ii. What are the common causes of hair loss?+
iii. What are the early signs and symptoms of alopecia? Can it be cured? +
iv.How can I diagnose my hair fall?+

Disclaimer - The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.