Losing more hair than usual could lead to hair loss. Here’s when you should be concerned about hair loss and what you can do about it.
While it’s normal to lose some hair every day, it can be devastating to see a fistful of hair down the drain. You wouldn’t be shaken if you lose a few strands but when it becomes regular and increases in quantity, it could mean a serious problem. The most confusing part of hair loss is you don’t know when to be concerned! You don’t understand whether losing a few hair every day is a concern, some thinning is a concern, or losing a chunk of hair is when you should be worried. If you are stuck in the dilemma too, here’s when you should be concerned about hair loss.
Health Shots got in touch with Dr Amrendra Kumar, MD, Dermatology (AIIMS) and Board-Certified Hair Transplant Surgeon, Global Hair Transplant Board (GHTB), to understand more about the problem.
Hair loss: When should you be concerned?
Noticing some hair fall is normal, but if you have been noticing too much hair on your pillow, hairbrush, or shower, it could be a problem. Losing between 50-100 strands of hair daily is normal as a part of the hair growth cycle, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The medical term for this condition is telogen effluvium. However, losing excessive hair or clumps falling out can be a cause of concern, which needs immediate attention from a doctor.
“Losing more than 100 hair strands per day consistently, especially if it results in noticeable thinning or bald spots, indicates unhealthy hair loss. Changes in hair texture, increased shedding after combing or washing, or patches of baldness are also concerning signs that require medical advice,” explains Dr Kumar.
If you notice a significant increase in hair shedding, visible thinning, patches of baldness, a widening part, or receding hairline, or if your hair falls out easily when brushing or washing, you should consult a hair transplant surgeon or dermatologist. They can help identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment,” explains Dr Kumar.
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Common causes of concerning hair loss
There are several changes that go in your body and can lead to the problem, including:
1. Hormonal changes
Women go through several hormonal changes throughout their life. A woman experiences hormonal changes due to her periods, menopause, and pregnancy. During these phases, estrogen and progesterone levels increase and lead to changes in your body, possibly causing hair loss. Having polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can also increase your risk of the condition.
2. Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions such as alopecia, thyroid, autoimmune diseases, fungal infections, scalp infections, PCOS, and cancer can increase hair loss risk. If the underlying medical condition is left untreated, it can make your hair fall more than usual.
3. Nutritional deficiencies
Hair follicles are rapidly growing cells, and thus need a lot of nutrients to grow. A study published in Dermatology Practical and Conceptual found that nutritional deficiencies can affect your hair growth negatively. You need to load up on iron, vitamin D, zinc, biotin, and vitamin B12 to avoid hair loss.
4. Stress
Chronic stress suppresses your immunity and can lead to inflammation, which can affect your hair follicles and lead to hair loss, according to a study published in the Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. It is important to reduce stress by exercising regularly, meditation, eating a diet with nutrients, getting a hobby, and opting for professional help if you want to manage stress.
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5. Certain medications
While medicines are meant to treat certain conditions, some can lead to unwanted side effects. Medications such as blood thinners, antidepressants, and more can trigger hair loss. It is best to talk to your doctor to know the side effects of the medication you are taking.
6. Excessive use of hairstyling products
Overuse of hair products that contain harsh chemicals, heat styling products, or tying your hair tight can lead to hair loss over time, says Dr Kumar. So, it is better to stick to a natural way to manage your hair and avoid hair styling products or applying harsh chemicals to your hair.
What should you do once you start noticing hair loss?
1. Consult a professional
Hair loss is a condition that needs to be treated, so it is a must to visit a hair transplant surgeon or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
2. Eat a healthy diet
Nutritional deficiencies can lead to hair loss, so it is important to eat a healthy diet to meet your daily nutrient requirement. You need to eat a healthy diet with nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, biotin, and protein.
3. Manage stress
Stress is one of the leading factors that can lead to hair loss. It is important to get stress under control by practicing stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or exercise.
4. Avoid harsh treatments
Excessive styling and hairstyles can cause hair loss, so it is important to minimize chemical treatments such as heat styling and tight hairstyles.
5. Medications and treatments
Depending on the cause, your doctor may suggest medications such as minoxidil, hormone therapy, or treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. These treatments can help you manage hair fall and reduce your chances of hair loss.
6. Consider a hair transplant
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves hair follicles to areas on your scalp where there is hair loss. It is used to restore hair density and improve the appearance of balding or thinning areas.
