To lose hair

Adam

Leg. Doctor

Losing your hair can be an emotionally challenging experience for many. Hair loss, which can affect both men and women, is not only a physical change but can also affect self-image and well-being. Here we go through common causes of hair loss, different methods to deal with it and when it might be time to seek help.

Why am I losing hair?

Hair loss can be caused by several different things. Understanding why you are losing hair is a first step in dealing with the situation.

– Genetics: The most common cause of hair loss, especially in men, is heredity. Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, can often be traced in the family. For genetically predisposed men, this condition can begin to manifest itself after puberty, sometimes as early as age 18. It is common for the condition to become more pronounced in middle age, and it is estimated that more than half of all men will experience some form of androgenetic alopecia by this age.

– Aging: With age, the number of active hair follicles decreases, leading to thinner and fewer hairs.

– Hormonal changes: In women, pregnancy, menopause and other hormonal changes can contribute to hair loss.

– Medical conditions and treatments: Diseases such as thyroid problems, anemia or autoimmune conditions can cause hair loss. Certain medications and medical treatments, such as radiation and chemotherapy for cancer, can also lead to hair loss.

– Stress: When a person experiences intense stress, it can affect hair growth cycles and lead to increased hair loss. Stress-related hair loss is usually temporary, and hair often begins to grow back when stress levels decrease.

How much hair is normal to lose?

It is normal to lose 50-100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair cycle. If you notice that you are losing more hair than this, are starting to thin, or if the hair loss is sudden or comes in patches, it may be appropriate to seek advice from a doctor.

Losing hair in greater amounts than normal can be a sign that something is not right. It is important not to ignore these signals. Often, early attention and treatment can make a big difference.

Lifestyle factors that affect hair loss

– Diet and nutrition: Inadequate nutrition can affect the health of the hair. A diet that lacks important vitamins and minerals can lead to increased hair loss.

– Stress: High stress levels can lead to temporary hair loss.

– Hair care habits: Excessive use of hair styling products, heat tools and chemical treatments can damage the hair and lead to hair loss. Even tightly fitting tassels can cause damage to the hair.

When to seek help for hair loss?

Sometimes hair loss can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Here are some indications of when you should consult a doctor:

– Sudden or unusual hair loss: If you experience sudden or very rapid hair loss.

– Patchy hair loss: If you get round, patchy areas of hair loss.

– Skin changes: If the hair loss is accompanied by itching, redness or irritation on the skin.

– Reasons for concern: If the hair loss is causing you significant stress or worry.

Manage hair loss

Dealing with hair loss is a personal process and may involve different strategies for different individuals. Hair loss can have a significant emotional impact on a person and accepting that one is losing hair can be a challenge. It is important to remember that hair loss is very common and a natural part of life for many. Seek support from family, friends or healthcare if hair loss is affecting your emotional well-being.

Treatment for male pattern baldness

There are medical treatments for hereditary hair loss in men. It is not possible to completely prevent or stop hair loss, but the process can be slowed down and if treatment is started in good time, you can also get hair regrowth. Hereditary male pattern baldness is largely a result of genetic factors and the influence of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a more powerful form of testosterone that is formed when testosterone is converted by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. In people prone to male pattern baldness, DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, which over time leads to thinning hair and eventual hair loss.

Male pattern baldness often follows a characteristic pattern that begins at the temples and on the crown of the head. There are two different treatments for this type of hair loss. A combination of these usually gives the best results: a tablet that reduces DHT, which slows down hair loss, and a liquid solution that you apply to the skin surface where you want hair regrowth.

Medicines against hair loss

Through us at Recetas Medicas, you can get prescriptions for medicines for the treatment of hair loss, without a video call or a physical visit. Complete our health form and you will be quickly contacted by a doctor to discuss which treatment may be suitable for you. Remember, it's completely normal to feel worried or sad about hair loss, but there is support and treatment options available. If you are concerned about your hair loss, don't hesitate to contact a doctor to discuss your options and find a solution that works for you.