Alopecia - Hair-loss

Hairloss is not the end, it could has medical issues.

Hair Loss: An Overview of Types, Causes, Treatments

Approximately half of the human population will experience some form of hair loss before the age of 50. Although in many ways it is more accepted and more easily dealt with than in the past, hair loss can still be psychologically devastating for many people. Luckily, in recent years, science has brought significant new understanding about this age old problem.

What are the different types of hair loss and what causes them?

Hair Loss
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Alopecia(the medical term for hair loss) can be either temporary or permanent. The causes can range from genetic to hormonal to drug side effects to psychological. The most frequent cause of permanent alopecia is called pattern baldness, and can happen in both men and women. For men, this type of hair loss can begin at a young age and may eventually lead to total baldness. It usually starts at the temples, frontal hairline, and top of the head. For women, pattern baldness starts later in life and usually only thins the hair at the crown, front, or sides. It rarely comes to complete baldness as it does in men. Other conditions, like cicatrical alopecia or alopecia totalis may also cause permanent hair loss.

Causes of temporary hair loss can include: thyroid or other hormonal problems, diabetes, lupus, chemotherapy, psychiatric disorders, reaction to medications, infections, stress from physical injuries or surgery, malnutrition, braids or weaves(or other things that cause physical trauma to the hair follicles).

What are the different treatment options available for hair loss?

There are numerous medications to help treat alopecia. Some are topical, and some are in the form of pills or injections. Minoxidil(more commonly known by the brand name Rogaine) is one of the most well-known and popular medications. It is a topical over-the-counter medication that is applied directly to the scalp. It can help to slow hair loss and even regrow new hair where hair loss has already occurred. Side effects are mild and may include irritation of the skin where the medication came into contact.

Finasteride(more commonly known by the brand name Propecia) is another popular choice. It is a prescription pill that is taken orally, and like minoxidil can slow hair loss and also regrow hair. Side effects are rare, but it can cause sexual dysfunction. It can be highly dangerous to women and they should not even touch the pills themselves. Anthralin is a topical prescription treatment which may cause hair regrowth in certain cases when used every day.

Cortisone is another prescription medication option which comes in topical, pill, or injection form, and may regrow hair in certain cases. All of the above options need to be used on on ongoing basis to receive benefit. They will not "cure" hair loss. When medication either does not work or the patient is looking for a more permanent option, several different surgeries can be performed, including hair transplants(the most common), scalp reduction, hair lifts, and flap procedures.

For those interested in alternative treatment methods, acupuncture, homeopathy, nutrition, herbal, or other treatments may help stop hair loss or regrow hair. Wigs and hairpieces are also an option for those who cannot afford other treatment or do not want the hassle of daily treatment for hair loss. Hair loss should always be taken seriously as it may be a sign of a serious underlying disease.