Disability Resource Directory

What is Hair Loss?

Hair loss is a common part of growing old for many men across the world. Mainly thanks to genetic predisposition, baldness and hair loss  are inevitable for many of those reaching middle age.  However, there are numerous conditions which can also give rise to hair loss in both men and women, as well as children.  Although this may be an embarrassing time for anyone suffering from hair loss, there are numerous effective ways to make it less obvious, such as disguising the scalp with hats, wigs and scarves to cover any bald patches.  Although not necessarily problematic for everyone, hair loss can indicate the presence of other, more serious conditions, so it is important to consult your physician straight away to minimize the chance of development and complication of certain potential causes.

Everyone undergoes a constant process of growing and shedding hair, which grows at a rate of one centimeter per month.  However, traumatic experience, such as a major operation, or old age, or the presence of certain medical conditions can hinder the rate of growth and cause excess shedding of older hairs, resulting in baldness and thinning hair.  Additionally, hair loss can be as a consequence of hormonal imbalance, and is a notable feature for many post pregnancy.  This cause of hair loss can be treated with hormones to maintain the bodily balance, and restart the regular cycle of hair growth and loss.

There are a variety of treatments available depending on the type and cause of the hair loss in question.  If your hair loss is as a consequence of medication, you may be offered an alternative prescription to curb this side effect.  If infection is your cause, identifying the infection and subsequently treating it can help the hair return to its natural cycle.  Again, with hormonal imbalances, topping up with corresponding hormones can help revert the body back to within its natural limits which should help the problem.  Furthermore, there are a range of medications which actually promote hair growth, and these are available over the counter and from your physician.  However, it must be noted that with the use of these medicines, a six month period is required before seeing any notable improvement, and the additional side effects of these medications may also cause problems for some patients.  If these treatments are unsuitable for your specific condition, there is always the availability of high quality wigs, which now days are almost impossible to differentiate from real hair, although these range greatly in price and quality.

If you are concerned about the onset of hair loss, or think there may be some underlying cause of your condition, it is highly advisable to contact your physician.  He will be able to analyze your overall symptoms and make an effective diagnosis of any medical conditions you may have, and can subsequently arrange the best treatment program to reverse your symptoms.  This will also be a beneficial exercise to air any concerns or quash any anxieties you may have surrounding your condition, the symptoms and potential treatments for your condition.