Common Skin Conditions > Hair Loss: Hair has been called our "crowning glory". Society has placed a great deal of social andcultural importance on hair and hairstyles. Unfortunately, many conditions, diseases, and improper hair care result in excessive hair loss. People who notice their hair shedding in large amounts after combing or brushing, or whose hair becomes thinner or falls out, should consult a dermatologist. With correct diagnosis, many people with hair loss can be helped.
Dermatologists who specialize in the medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatment of diseases of the hair and skin, can evaluate a patient's hair problem by asking questions about medical disorders and recent illnesses, diet and exercise, medications and vitamins including health food taken in the last six months, family history of hair loss, and hair care habits. Hormonal effects may be evaluated in women by asking about menstrual cycles, pregnancies and menopause. After examining the scalp and hair, the dermatologist may check a few hairs under the microscope. Sometimes blood tests or a scalp biopsy may be required for an accurate diagnosis. It's important to find the cause of the problem and how it will respond to medical treatment.
Causes of excessive hair loss:
- Improper Hair Cosmetic Use/Improper Hair Care
- Hereditary Thinning or Balding
- Alopecia Areata
- Childbirth
- High Fever, Severe infection, Severe Flu
- Thyroid Disease
- Fungus Infection of theScalp (Ringworm)
- Inadequate protein in Diet
| - Birth Control Pills
- Low Serum Iron
- Major Surgery/Chronic
- Illness/Stressful Event
- Hair Pulling
- Cancer Treatments
- Medications
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As you can see, excessive hair loss can have many different causes. Hair will regrow spontaneously in some forms of hair loss. Other forms can be treated successfully by a dermatologist. Research is ongoing and is quite promising in the field of hair loss.
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