The Many Causes Of Hair Loss
Wednesday, December 16th, 2009Hair loss can happen for many reasons. Generally, the normal cycle of hair growth has a duration of approximately 2 to 6 years. Although some hair shedding can happen during this time, it is when the hair shedding becomes excessive that one might consider treatments. Below you will find some of the causes to hair loss.
Major illness plays a big role in hair loss. Usually, it is only temporary and the hair will grow back once the illness is no longer present.
Abnormalities in the body’s chemistry such as thyroid disease can lead to the loss of hair. The thyroid hormones regulate your metabolism and when your thyroid is not functioning properly, this is when you might experience hair loss. Another fluctuation in the body could result from giving birth. This also is a temporary hair loss situation. Other causes for the loss of hair are chemotherapy, fungal infections, radiation treatments, some prescription drugs and stress.
Stress is not great for the body and can actually wreak havoc on it resulting in a number of mental, emotional and physical symptoms. One of these symptoms can be hair loss which is known as Telogen Effluvium. When the body is stressed it disrupts normal hair growth. Now, couple this up with your body lacking necessary vitamins and minerals and your hair follicles go into what is known as a rest period.
Hair falls out daily, but because it is replaced by new hair, you hardly notice. When your hair follicles are in this rest period, new hair stops growing and your hair loss will begin to get noticeable. The good news is that it is also a temporary situation and can be treated.
Genetic predisposition is the leading reason for long term hair loss and typically this is when treatments should be considered. There are supplements that can be taken to promote hair growth, however, it is advised that you speak with your dermatologist first and weigh out your options.