What Causes Hair Loss in Women?
There are about 30 different medical conditions and several lifestyle factors that can trigger hair loss in women. Sometimes however, there can be no specific issue that triggers the hair loss. As a starting point hair loss experts normally recommend that you seek testing for potential thyroid problems and possible hormone imbalances. In many cases it has been found that once the cause has been addressed your hair will grow back.
This blog will address some of the triggers for hair loss in women.
Thyroid Problems
The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland situated at the front of your neck. The role of the thyroid is to produce hormones that regulate many of the processes throughout your body. If too much or too little thyroid hormone is being produced your hair growth cycle may become affected. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause your hair to fall out. Once the thyroid disorder is treated in most cases the hair will grow back. Other symptoms of a thyroid problem include weight gain, weight loss, sensitivity to cold or heat and changes in your heart rate.
PCOS
If you suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) you will have a chronic hormonal imbalance. The higher levels of androgens will cause additional hair to sprout on your face and body whilst your hair on your scalp will become thinner. You can also experience ovulation problems, acne and weight gain, however thinning hair is sometimes the only sign.
Alopecia Areata
If you start to notice your hair falling out in startling patches you could be suffering from Alopecia Areata. This happens when your own body’s immune system mistakenly attacks your healthy hair follicles. In the majority of cases the hair loss is not permanent and hair grows back within 6-12 months. In very rare cases you may lose all the hair on your scalp and body.
Ringworm
When ringworm affects your scalp, the fungus will trigger a distinct pattern of hair loss – itchy round bald patches will appear on your scalp often appearing red and scaly in nature. An antifungal medication is prescribed to treat the ringworm. It’s important that all family members are checked for symptoms as the fungus is easily spread through direct contact.
If you find you are suffering from thinning hair or hair loss in patches we recommend you seek medical advice to see if there is an underlying factor contributing to this. Here at Simone Thomas hair loss clinic in Reading and Bournemouth, we see ladies from every walk of life from all over the South, Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, Dorset, London and the entire UK. We have a wide range of knowledge and expertise and offer consultations to discuss hair loss treatment for women available to you, from synthetic wigs and hair pieces, to custom made wigs and hair volumizers, from hair extensions to re-styles. Come in and have a confidential chat, don’t sit at home and suffer in silence. Book your consultation now with one of the team!
