Hair loss is any woman’s biggest nightmare. We all dread it and cringe to see hair strands falling every time we brush them. Usually when we talk about baldness, the conversation is about men. But recent studies have shown that women too are not immune when it comes to losing their hair. There could be several reasons behind it. Almost 2/3 of the female population is reportedly affected by this problem.
Symptoms and Causes
According to the doctors losing 50-100 strands of hair per day is considered normal. But an increase in this demands attention. Look out for the following:
1. Hormonal imbalance
Factors like post partum stress disorders, menopause, use of oral contraceptives often leads to the weakening of hair follicles and may result in a permanent damage.
2. Extensive use of hair color or hair treatments
Extensive use of hair color or hair treatments, leave a harsh effect on the hair. Though hair products are not considered harmful but their continuous usage can produce adverse effects by permanently damaging and scarring the hair follicles.
3. Hereditary factor
Medically termed as androgenetic alopecia, is a common cause of baldness in both men and women. This particular stage is followed by a receding hair line and top of the head getting bald in case of men. Whereas, women experience uniform thinning of hair. It is caused be hormonal imbalance.
3. Pregnancy
Due to the increase in some particular hormones during pregnancy, the hair strength deteriorates significantly and results in hair damage and loss. As a result the hairs fall into clumps.
4. Illness and medicinal effects
Patients dealing with anemia, thyroid disorders, stress, and iron deficiency are hugely exposed to the problem of hair loss. Due to the deficiencies caused by such diseases in the body, the hair becomes weak and tends to fall at a rapid rate. Certain ailments like chemotherapy used for cancer patients require medical treatment that usually has damaging effects on hair.
5. Nutritional disorders
Nutritional disorders like eating disorders, over eating and anorexia leads to temporary halt to the growth of hair and extensive damage. It is caused due to the insufficient supply of vitamins and minerals to the body.
5. Seasonal changes
Rate of hair loss increases more during the months of November and December.
6. Aging
Hair growth deteriorates as we grow old. Since it is a genetic behavior, hence the loss is permanent.
Prevention
Although women rarely experience complete baldness but the occurrence of severe hair loss cannot be overlooked. Thus home remedies and Allopathic treatments are required. For example, estrogen is prescribed by the medical practitioners to the patients of hair loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is hair loss inherited from the father?
No, it could be inherited from either of the parents.
2. Does menstruation affect hair loss?
No, menstruation has no effect on hair loss.
3. Can washing lead to hair loss?
No, normal wash care does not lead to hair loss.