Hair Loss Causes and Treatment Options

Our crowning beauty, our youth, and our sense of self all revolve around our hair. I have no idea why this is true, but it is. We all want a perfect head of hair. No matter the age or sex, we all want our hair to add luster and finish to our look. Some people are blessed with wonderfully thick hair that stays youthful and full their whole lives. These people are in the minority because most of us have to worry about thinning hair or hair loss at some point in our lives.

Everyone at some point experiences hair loss. This is because at all times, approximately ten percent of your hair experiences what is known as a resting phase. After a few months, the resting hairs will fall out and brand new hair grows in. This phase of growth can last from two years to five or more. While this is a normal part of life and everyone experiences it, there are times when hair loss becomes excessive and leads to problems.

There are many reasons why people experience excessive hair loss. This type of hair loss can lead to bald spots or even total baldness. Let's take a look at some factors that can cause this problem.

Certain medications can cause hair to fall out. Some prescriptions such as anticoagulants, gout medicines, birth control pills, antidepressants and even too much Vitamin A can contribute to the problem. When the medicine is discontinued, your hair should grow back normally. Never discontinue your medication without the guidance of your doctor, as serious health problems can result. Hormonal problems can also be to blame for unexplained or excessive hair loss. So can various types of infections and diseases. By treating these problems, you can often remedy your hair loss. Even styling your hair with rollers that pull on the hair or tight ponytail holders can encourage hair to fall out.

However, there are some causes that are not as easily treated. For example, many men find that problems with baldness run in the family. If you've got a history of hair loss or baldness in your family tree, it's likely you may experience the problem yourself.

The first thing to do when you find your hair is falling out excessively is see your doctor. He or she will conduct a thorough examination to determine why you are experiencing this problem. Once a diagnosis is reached, your doctor will discuss various treatment options with you. The solution may be as simple as changing your diet, medication or lifestyle. In some cases, you may be prescribed medication to encourage new hair growth. You may have seen products like Rogaine on the market and wonder if they can work for you. Be sure to ask your physician, because he or she can tell you whether or not these types of hair growth products are a good option for you.

Hair loss can be an embarrassing issue that can affect your self esteem and even the quality of your life. However, it doesn't have to. By obtaining proper medical guidance, you can find out the cause of your hair loss and treatment options that are available to help remedy the problem.