Types

Types of hair loss include temporary hair loss, treatable hair loss, medicinal-related hair loss, disease-related hair loss, scarring, androgenetic alopecia and traction alopecia.

Commonality

The most common type of hair loss is the inherited male-pattern baldness. Characteristic of this type of baldness is a receding hairline and hair loss directly on the top of the head. In women, hair will become thin over the scalp.

Causes

Stress from having a major illness or surgery can spark temporary hair loss. Hormones cause hair loss as well, such as having a thyroid problem or unbalanced male and female hormones. Pregnancy can result in hair loss due to high hormone levels; normal hair growth and loss will resume post-pregnancy. Certain medicines can cause hair loss as well; hair growth will resume once you stop taking the medicine. Other causes include infections or a disease like diabetes or lupus.

Care

Specific hairstyles, such as pigtails, can cause hair loss, as they literally tug on your hair. Hot oil hair treatments or chemicals can inflame hair follicles, resulting in scarring, which leads to hair loss.

Treatment

Treating a thyroid disease or fixing hormonal imbalance can help stop hair loss. Antifungal medications are used to treat fungal infections; treating these infections will stop hair loss.

Warning

If you notice hair loss, it is important to discover the cause, as it could point to a developing disease.

Source:

Family Doctor