Q. What are the common causes of hair loss?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Hair loss, or alopecia, can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the common causes of hair loss include:

1. Androgenetic Alopecia: This is the most common cause of hair loss and is often referred to as male or female pattern baldness. It is primarily genetic and related to hormonal changes.

2. Alopecia Areata: This is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss in small, round patches.

3. Telogen Effluvium: Hair loss caused by stress, illness, or significant changes in the body, which leads to more hair follicles entering the resting (telogen) phase.

4. Anagen Effluvium: Typically caused by chemotherapy or radiation therapy, this type of hair loss affects actively growing hair follicles.

5. Traction Alopecia: Hair loss resulting from the constant pulling and tension on hair, often due to hairstyles like tight braids or ponytails.

6. Scarring Alopecia: This is caused by inflammation and damage to hair follicles, often resulting in permanent hair loss.

7. Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, especially iron, zinc, and biotin, can lead to hair loss.

8. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders, can contribute to hair loss.

9. Medications: Certain medications, like those for cancer, arthritis, depression, and high blood pressure, can cause hair loss as a side effect.

10. Medical Conditions: Conditions like lupus, diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can be associated with hair loss.

11. Infections: Scalp infections, such as ringworm, can lead to hair loss.

12. Trichotillomania: This is a psychological condition in which individuals compulsively pull out their hair, resulting in hair loss.

13. Hair Styling and Treatments: Excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, and hair dyes can weaken and damage hair, causing it to break or fall out.

14. Aging: Natural aging can result in reduced hair thickness and density.

15. Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss by disrupting the normal hair growth cycle.

Identifying the specific cause of hair loss is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment or management strategy. If you are experiencing significant hair loss, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and guidance on the most suitable treatment options.

Read Answer Right Arrow
Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Looking for expert medical advice and care can be a daunting task, especially when you need it urgently. But with Second Medic, you can connect with the best doctors in just a few minutes and have a private care conversation with them, all for free!

Our platform is designed to make it easy for you to get the medical advice and care you need without any hassle. Whether you have a minor health concern or a serious medical condition, our team of experienced doctors are here to help.

At Second Medic, we understand the importance of timely and reliable medical advice. That's why we've made it our mission to provide you with the best possible care, at the convenience of your own home.

Our platform is easy to use, and you can connect with a doctor in just a few simple steps. All you need to do is create an account, tell us about your health concern, and we'll match you with a doctor who has the expertise to help you.

You can then have a private care conversation with your doctor, where you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any other concerns you may have. Our doctors will then provide you with expert advice and guidance on the next steps to take.

So, whether you're looking for medical advice, a second opinion, or a prescription refill, Second Medic has got you covered. With our platform, you can get the care you need, when you need it, all for free!