Hair loss is a condition that affects countless millions of people throughout the United States. And, while many associate hair loss with men, the truth is that women are just as likely to experience it. Unfortunately, while hair loss among women is not as openly addressed as it is with men, it that may be a condition that is avoidable, preventable, and treatable. When it comes to understanding hair loss in women, the important question is “What causes it?”
There are many reasons women might lose their hair (not including normal levels of daily hair loss), including heredity. Causes of hair loss in women (other than a genetic disposition) include:
1. Hypo- and hyperthyroidism – When too little thyroid hormone is produced (hypothyroidism), hairs become brittle and break easily. When too much is produced (hyperthyroidism), the body’s metabolism speeds up, and hair loss may result. Testing is needed to determine if a thyroid condition exists before treatment can begin.
2. Autoimmune disorders – Diseases of the autoimmune system such as lupus, HIV/AIDS, psoriasis, and alopecia areata can make changes to skin cells and other structures that can be causes of hair loss in women and men. Sometimes hair loss is slow, but it may also fall out in patches. Contact your doctor if you are at risk.
3. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome – One of the reasons for hair loss in women is a hormonal imbalance known as polycystic ovarian syndrome, a condition that exists when the ovaries produce too much testosterone. Oddly, while people with this syndrome may lose hair from the scalp, they may experience an increase in hair growth elsewhere, most notably facial hair. Tests are needed to determine if this condition exists.
4. Telogen effluvium – This is a condition that is triggered as a response to stress. Pregnancy, surgery, dramatic weight loss, and extreme stress can be causes of hair loss in women attributed to this condition. Even traditional medications can be a cause. Telogen effluvium is caused by a rapid shift in the life-cycle of hair follicles, resulting in the follicles moving too quickly to the shedding stage. If hair loss has become a concern, speak to your doctor.
5. Anemia – When the body lacks sufficient levels of iron, it cannot produce enough red blood cells to transport oxygen through the body. When hair does not get enough oxygen, it will fall out.
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An absence of red blood cells can cause hair loss. Source: nih.gov |
6. Scalp conditions – Fungal diseases such as ringworm can cause hair to fall out. Your dermatologist can diagnose the cause and recommend treatment.
7. Medications and medical treatments – Chemo and radiation therapy can cause hair loss; fortunately, once the treatment stops the condition gradually reverses itself. Overuse of NSAIDs may also be a reason for hair loss in women.
8. Improper hair styling – Mistreating hair during styling is a common and preventable cause of hair loss in women. Hairstyles that are too tight, require strong chemicals, or use appliances that damage hair all contribute to its falling out. Prevention simply requires monitoring how you care for your hair and protecting it.
9. Aging – For many, growing older may be accompanied by a loss of or a thinning of hair. Early theories about the causes of hair loss in women considered menopause a possible culprit, but extensive research has shown that conditions that accompany aging that happen to coincide with menopause are the triggers.
All of us lose hair daily– usually between 100 to 150 strands. It is part of the replenishment cycle. However, if you think you are losing more than this, or if you experience hair loss in large patches or clumps, contact your doctor. It could be a sign of a more serious problem.
