Other Hair Loss Reasons

There are many factors contributing to hair loss, but to know for sure what's causing your hair loss only a physician can really say. It may be a single reason or a combination of things. Some hair loss conditions may be controllable and other hair loss conditions may not be controllable. Only begin exploring treatments once you know exactly what your primary cause of thinning is.

By far, a hereditary condition called 'Androgenic Alopecia' is the most common cause of thinning and premature baldness. Hair falls out in small patch-like areas and it occurs in both men and women. This condition accounts for 95% of general hair loss, affecting millions and millions of people.

This makes genetics our number one cause of hair thinning. This is nearly impossible to control and difficult to avoid. It is in our DNA makeup, thanks to Mom and Dad, so it can sometimes be anticipated quite accurately. There are barrages of myths that attribute male and female Androgenic Alopecia to causes like blocked hair follicles, hats, over-brushing and even bad shampoo. Don't be fooled, if it's going to happen blame heredity.

Hair loss can also be the result of an exceptionally stressful experience, such as if an individual is faced with serious medical concerns or a tragedy of some kind. Thinning may begin to occur during the first three-month period after this intensely emotional time. Childbirth can also be a stressful event and sometimes women experience hair loss after the fact within the two to three months that follow. Individuals stricken with illness, low blood count, or thyroid abnormalities are also vulnerable, as well as patients of autoimmune disorders. The body directs full efforts towards the most necessary health demands, which temporarily halts hair growth.

Unbalanced dieting and careless eating habits can lead to baldness. In particular, a low protein diet is not a good option if you're struggling with thin locks. Your hair needs all the protein it can get to stay thick, healthy, and most importantly, intact. The same goes for iron. Depriving your body of vitamins and minerals, and also in conditions such as anemia, could result in hair loss. Diet safely and wisely choose regimes that are designed to benefit your whole body, which includes your scalp and hair.

Certain illnesses and conditions require the usage of medications that have shedding as a side effect. Common examples of this are cancer-treating drugs. Other instances include prescription drugs such as antidepressants, contraception and medications for high blood pressure. An excessive vitamin intake can also contribute to hair thinning.

Aging is a natural cause of hair loss and is extremely common. After the first quarter of life it is normal to lose up to 100 hairs a day. As the aging process advances hair follicles begin to shrink. This eventually inhibits hair development, slowing down the regular ½" of growth per month.