HAIR LOSS

The American Academy of Dermatology reports that hair grows about one-half inch per month and that it is normal to lose 50 to 100 hairs per day. If you are one of the many people who suffer from hair loss, you know that these statistics do not always apply.

Hair loss can be divided into two categories: scarring alopecias, which refer to permanent damage to the hair follicle, and nonscarring alopecias, which refer to changes in the hair cycle.

Hereditary hair loss, also known to as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss and affects both men and women. Hereditary hair loss can begin in one’s teen years or later in life. There is no cure, but there are treatments available to help this condition.

Alopecia areata is a form of hair loss that causes coin-sized or larger patches of hair to fall out and create totally smooth hairless areas. Alopecia areata is thought to be caused by an autoimmune disease even though the affected patients are usually in good health. It can affect children and adults. Usually, hair will begin to grow again, but dermatologists can perform treatments to speed up the cycle.

Hair loss can also stem from overuse of chemical treatments, High Fever, Severe Infection, Severe Flu, Major Surgery, Thyroid Disease, Inadequate Protein in Diet, Low Serum Iron, Medications, Birth Control Pills, Cancer Treatments, and Scalp ringworm.

Georgia Dermatology offers treatments for hair loss, including the use of Procepia for male pattern baldness. If you are struggling with the common problem of hair loss, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gross and take the first step to finding a solution.

References: www.aad.org

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