HEALTH TIP

Hair loss facts

• Hair loss is a very common condition and affects most people at some time in their lives.
• Hair loss from breakage of the hair shaft is different than hair loss due to decreased hair growth.
• Androgenetic hair loss is seen in both men and women but is more dramatic in men.
• Thyroid disease, anemia, protein deficiency, chemotherapy, and low vitamin levels may cause hair loss.
• Alopecia areata is a form of hair loss produced by the autoimmune destruction of hair follicles in localized areas of skin.
• Medications indicated for hair regrowth include minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia).
• Prevention of hair loss includes good hair hygiene, regular shampooing, and good nutrition.
• Medical health screening for hair loss may include blood tests such as complete blood count (CBC), iron level, vitamin B, thyroid function tests (TFT), and a biopsy of the scalp.

What types of doctors treat hair loss?

Such basic health screening can be done by a family physician, internist, or gynecologist. Dermatologists are doctors who specialize in problems of skin, hair, and nails and may provide more advanced diagnosis and treatment of hair thinning and loss. Sometimes a scalp biopsy may be necessary.

Although many medications list "hair loss" among their potential side effects, most drugs are not likely to induce hair loss. On the other hand, cancer chemotherapy and immunosuppressive medications commonly produce hair loss. Complete hair loss after chemotherapy usually regrows after six to 12 months.