Hair Loss

Hair loss can affect the scalp or any part of the body. It can be temporary or permanent, and may be a normal part of aging or a sign of an underlying health issue.

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

  • Medical name: Alopecia
  • ICD-10: L65
  • Most common type: Androgenetic alopecia
  • Often treatable: Yes, depending on cause

Overview

Everyone sheds 50–100 hairs per day as part of the normal hair growth cycle. Hair loss becomes noticeable when shedding exceeds regrowth, or when scarring permanently damages hair follicles.

Common Types

  • Androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern baldness) — genetic, hormone-influenced; the most common cause.
  • Telogen effluvium — temporary shedding triggered by stress, illness, surgery, childbirth, or weight loss.
  • Alopecia areata — patchy autoimmune hair loss.
  • Traction alopecia — caused by tight hairstyles pulling on the hair.
  • Cicatricial (scarring) alopecia — permanent follicle destruction, often from inflammatory skin conditions.

Causes

  • Genetics
  • Hormonal changes (postpartum, menopause, thyroid disorders, PCOS)
  • Nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin D, protein)
  • Chronic illness or autoimmune disease
  • Medications (chemotherapy, blood thinners, some antidepressants)
  • Severe stress or recent major illness
  • Scalp infections (e.g., ringworm)
  • Excessive heat or chemical treatments

Diagnosis

  • Detailed history and scalp examination
  • 'Pull test' to assess shedding
  • Blood tests (thyroid, iron, vitamin D, hormones)
  • Scalp biopsy in unclear or scarring cases

Treatment

Pattern hair loss

  • Minoxidil (topical) — for men and women
  • Finasteride or dutasteride — for men (and selected women under specialist care)
  • Spironolactone — for women
  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections — variable evidence
  • Low-level laser therapy
  • Hair transplantation

Alopecia areata

  • Topical or injected corticosteroids
  • JAK inhibitors for severe disease

Telogen effluvium

Usually resolves on its own once the underlying trigger is addressed (often within 6–9 months).

When to See a Doctor

See a dermatologist for:

  • Sudden or patchy hair loss
  • Hair loss with scalp pain, itching, or scaling
  • Hair loss accompanied by other symptoms (fatigue, weight changes)
  • Hair loss in children

Related Symptoms

Hypothyroidism

Can cause diffuse hair thinning

 Iron Deficiency Anemia

May contribute to hair loss

 PCOS

Hormonal cause of female hair loss

 Itching of Skin

Can accompany scalp conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to find lots of hair on my pillow?

Losing 50–100 hairs per day is normal. Noticeably more shedding for weeks, or visible thinning, warrants evaluation.

Will my hair grow back after telogen effluvium?

Usually yes. Hair growth typically resumes within months once the underlying trigger resolves.

Does minoxidil work for everyone?

Minoxidil helps slow hair loss and promote regrowth in many users but not everyone. Results take 3–6 months and are usually only maintained while you continue using it.

Can stress alone cause hair loss?

Yes — severe physical or emotional stress can trigger telogen effluvium, where a larger proportion of hair follicles shift into the shedding phase a few months later.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

References

  • American Academy of Dermatology. Hair Loss Resources.