Alopecia (Hair Loss)

Alopecia is the gradual loss of hair across the top and sides of the scalp. This is a hereditary condition that can begin as early as the late teens. It can range from a slight thinning of hair overall, to complete baldness. Around 40% of men will have some hair loss by their mid-30s. Baldness usually begins with overall thinning of the scalp hair. Next comes the classic "receding hairline" starting at the forehead. Concurrently, hair may thin at the crown creating the equally familiar "bald spot." Hair at the top of the head may remain thin indefinitely, or there may be just a fringe of hair left around the back of the head and above the ears. Women can also suffer from Alopecia, but in general are more likely to experience overall thinning of the hair. In males, hair loss occurs on top of the head and in the temple areas of the scalp where as in females, hair loss usually occurs only on top of the head. After menopause, nearly 60% of women experience some thinning of their hair. Alopecia affects about 30 million men and 20 million women in the U.S. each year.

Hair loss not followed by re-growth or regeneration is the primary sign of alopecia. In women, alopecia is more likely to appear when there are signs of excess body hair, abnormal menstruation, acne, or other signs of excess male hormones. Hair loss can also be caused by certain drugs, and by systemic diseases including lupus, thyroid disorders, and nutrient deficiencies. But other forms of hair loss can be differentially diagnosed and may sometimes be mistaken for it. Investigation begins with a history of the hair loss and examination of the head and hair. In the clinic, hair-examination methods may include hair pulls or clipping, microscopic examination of hair fibers, scrapings of scales, and biopsy, if other conditions are being investigated.

Also, although a family history of baldness suggests genetic causes, possible risk factors, which are traits or behaviors that may make someone statistically more likely than others in the general population to have a certain condition also include:

A hereditary condition, baldness occurs when the hair follicles slowly begin to produce finer, shorter hair. Eventually, the follicle stops producing hair at all. Gradually, these hair follicles shrink and produce thinner hair, and then hair growth slows, and finally ceases, resulting in permanent baldness. Some of the reputed causes of this are:

In women with signs of excessive male hormones (androgens), studies may include:

Avoid poor diets with excess salt and sugar. Concentrate instead on healthy eating habits with vegetables and fresh fruits and lots of water.

Although androgenic alopecia is hereditary and not easily reversible, there are other factors both internal and external involved in hair loss that can indeed result in hair improvement and regrowth. Hair health depends on blood supply circulation and nutrition.

As with all diseases stress will increase hair loss so it is important to be stress free and avoid depression as best as possible. Besides that adopting an exercise routine also helps avoid hair loss.