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Hair loss is a common medical condition especially on the head (baldness) in men. Hair loss generally occurs as hair thinning and progresses to complete hair loss on major areas of the body such as legs, arms, back, and scalp. Although most people assume only men lose their hair, front scalp hair loss affects 58% of women and 75% of men. The common term for frontal baldness is “receding hairline” and typically advances to the mid to rear of the head in male pattern baldness.
Hair loss may occur because of various situations or medical factors. The term “traction alopecia” refers to hair loss induced by a person who pulls frequently on the hair. The same mechanical loss of hair can be induced by extreme force from a hair style such as corn rows or pony tails. Generally hair styles do not induce the loss of hair by themselves but if coupled with weak roots can contribute to mild baldness. Medical treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation, which severely weakens the body, is usually responsible for rapid and sever hair loss and may result in complete baldness. The hair often returns after the treatment stops. Individuals with hyperthyroidism also complain of patchy hair loss on the head, arms and legs. Malnutrition, specifically lack of protein in the diet, often leads to thinning hair. Hair requires extensive protein use so without proper nutrition, the body cannot manufacture hair. Overweight patients with poor leg circulation also notice hair loss near the ankles. Lastly, fungus infections of the hair follicle, called folliculitis, and ringworm infection of the scalp cause production of brittle hair that falls out easily.
Although the hair loss is usually obvious, the underlying cause may take time to determine. Doctors will ask about social history to determine any life changes or new diets that can be contributing to the hair loss. Often the reason for hair loss is simply older age.
If genetic, an individual cannot prevent against hair loss. Male pattern baldness, originally believed to be passed down from the mother’s grandfather, actually is contributed to by both parents. Maintaining a protein rich diet and general health can reduce the occurrence of hair loss with old age. Some studies show that exercise may also increases the rate of hair growth.
Forms of hair loss related to diet or medical treatment usually reverse when the circumstances stop. Patients undergoing cancer treatment should ask their doctor if the medications will contribute to hair loss. Other problems such as fungal infections require anti-fungal drugs to kill the organism. Normal hair growth usually returns once the treatment is finished. A few new drugs for men that promote hair growth and reduce loss are, finasteride, propeica, and minoxidil. Women have their own set of hair treatment drugs which are, finasteride, aldactone, and tagamet. Both men and women may opt for surgical hair restoration which transplants another person’s hair or an individual’s own hair to the bald area. Non-surgical hair replacement, such as wigs, are also extremely common and may be the most affordable alternative.
American Hair Loss Association
23679 Calabasas Road # 682
Calabasas, CA 91301-1502
| Patient comments (source: Patient Satisfaction Report) | |
| 2010-04-08 11:27:32 | Every aspect was oustanding, most importantly the expertise of the physician. |
| 2010-04-08 10:18:24 | I was given ample time to ask questions and have them answered to my satisfaction. |
| 2010-03-31 11:40:03 | start to finish it was a perfect experience, i found the reception area very heplful and understanding, |