If you suspect that you have hair loss, your doctor will use a combination of physical exam and health history to determine the cause. He or she may perform a biopsy, which is a small section of skin removed for laboratory testing, or order blood tests to rule out underlying illnesses. Ultimately, the best treatment will depend on the underlying cause, so a doctor will determine which treatments are right for you. The best treatments for hair loss depend on the underlying cause.
Treatments for hair loss
Treatment for hair loss consists of various methods to prevent, slow or reverse the loss of hair. The loss of hair is normal in most people and will eventually grow back, though some men and women may experience hair loss as they age. Other causes of hair loss include certain diseases, medications and chemotherapy for cancer. Lifestyle factors such as stress, poor diet, and family history can also contribute to hair loss. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for hair loss, including surgery and hair restoration.
A dermatologist can prescribe a treatment to regrow thinning hair or prevent further hair loss. While many at-home treatments are available without a doctor’s prescription, there are some precautions you should follow. A dermatologist may recommend a medication containing minoxidil, known as Rogaine(r). This medication should be applied to the scalp twice a day as prescribed. Hair growth can be seen within a few months of this treatment.
Medical conditions that cause hair loss
Several medical conditions cause hair loss, including traumatizing procedures such as hair dyeing or bleaching. These techniques can expose the hair to excessive heat or damaging chemicals. Trichotillomania, an uncommon psychiatric disorder, also causes bald spots. In addition to alopecia, some of these conditions can lead to permanent hair loss. While the exact cause of alopecia is unknown, treatments vary from mild to severe.
Other medical conditions that cause hair loss include chemotherapy drugs, certain diet pills, thyroid problems, and some types of cancer. During treatment, chemotherapy may cause hair loss, so it’s important to avoid taking it for any length of time. Another cause is alopecia areata, a skin disorder that causes hair loss on the scalp. Scientists say this disorder is an autoimmune-order. For more information, visit your doctor or dermatologist.
Diet can cause hair loss
One factor to consider when looking at diet can cause hair loss is the type of carbohydrate you’re eating. High-glycemic-index foods can make your hair fall out. Examples of these foods are rice, sweets, and breads. They make it difficult for your body to process stress, and chronic stress can lead to hair loss. Sugary foods also spike your insulin, which can cause hair loss. You can reverse the hair loss after a diet overhaul, though it may not be as quick as it seems.
Eating foods rich in Vitamin C and E is a great way to keep circulation in your scalp healthy. These vitamins are also involved in the synthesis of collagen and uptake of iron. Vitamin C and E work together to prevent hair loss. In addition, proteins are essential for hair growth. People who are vegans must consume a lot of protein to avoid hair loss. Those who don’t like broccoli should make up for these nutrients in other ways.
Radiation therapy causes hair loss
Hair loss is a common side effect of radiation therapy. A high dose of radiation can destroy hair follicles, causing thinning and loss. Loss may be temporary or permanent, depending on the dosage and location of the treatment. Low-dose radiation can cause temporary hair loss, with hair regrowing within a few months. However, the hair regrowth may be thin and curly. Moreover, the hair follicles in the treated area may become inflamed and damaged.
Besides causing a painful and tender scalp, chemotherapy can also cause hair loss. Chemotherapy also thins hair, making it brittle and prone to breakage. Radiation therapy, on the other hand, can cause hair loss only in the areas treated with the radiation. If the radiation is directed at the scalp, the hair will fall out there. Hair fall-out can begin 2 to three weeks after the treatment begins.
Tissue expansion can cover bald spots
One treatment for hair loss is tissue expansion. This advanced plastic surgery procedure involves stretching out the scalp and forehead. The surgeon inserts a balloon-shaped expander beneath the skin to gradually fill it with saline over four to ten weeks. The stretched tissue usually contains hair and can be used to cover bald spots or large scars. This treatment requires two separate procedures. A surgeon must carefully choose a candidate for this procedure.
Tissue expansion is an ideal treatment for larger balding areas. A balloon-like device is inserted under the hair-bearing region adjacent to the balding area and gradually filled with saline solution. The skin grows new hair in the expanded area. The expanded skin is then placed over the bald spot, leaving the grafted area with a new blood supply. This procedure can be painful and can be a long time-consuming process, but the results are long-lasting.