Causes of Hair Loss

Although the majority of hair loss is secondary to androgenetic alopecia there are other significant causes of hair loss that should be addressed including the following:

• Alopecia areata is an immune system disorder that affects the hair follicles ability to produce hair.  A sudden loss of hair from a small area is a common presenting symptom.  Advanced forms of the disorder include alopecia totalis, where all hair on the head is lost and alopecia universlis, which results in the absence of all body hair.
   
• Pregnancy is a period when hormones can fluctuate considerably in women.  While pregnant women are not especially prone to lose hair.  However, two to three month's post-partum, a significant number of hair follicles will enter the resting phase.  Some women will experience considerable hair loss during this time for approximately one to six months.  This condition is self-limiting and reverses in most cases.
   
• High fever is another cause of alopecia. Four to six weeks following a high fever or significant infection individuals may notice a significant amount hair loss.  This condition is self-limiting and reverses in most cases.
   
• Nutritional deficiencies can be a rare cause of hair loss.  Some vegetarians, individuals on fad diets, etc. who severely limit their intake of proteins may lose a significant amount of hair.  In protein deficiencies the body will strive to save protein by shifting the hair follicles into the resting phase.  Extensive hair loss is then demonstrated several months later.  Iron deficiency is also a rare cause of hair loss. The process is reversed with the proper diet. 
   
• Thyroid disease is another disorder associated with hair loss. Individuals with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism may experience hair loss. The diagnosis is usually established by a patient's history combined with laboratory results.  Hair loss associated with a thyroid disorder is usually reversible with the proper medication.
   
• Prescription medications are another source for hair loss.  Some examples of medications that are known to cause hair loss include:  blood thinners, gout medications, anti-depressants, arthritic medications, hypertension medications, birth control pills, high doses of vitamin A, chemotherapy/radiation, etc.
   
• Major surgery may present excessive stress on the system that can result in hair loss.  Hair loss is generally noticed one to three months following the surgery.  The condition will usually reverse itself unless the individual has a chronic illness.
   
• Ringworm of the scalp, actually caused by fungus, begins with small patches of scaling that subsequently spread resulting in broken hair.  This condition is contagious and is common in school-aged children.  The condition is resolved with oral or topical medication.
   
• Chemical products such as dyes, bleaches, tints, straighteners, perms, chlorine, etc. can all damage hair.  These products when used excessively can dry hair out causing it to break at the roots.
   
• Traction alopecia is the loss of hair secondary to constant pulling as seen in tight ponytails, hair weaves, braids, etc.