Hair Loss: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
What is Hair Loss?
Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a condition that affects the scalp or the entire body. It can be temporary or permanent and can present as thinning, patchiness, or baldness.
Causes of Hair Loss
The causes of hair loss vary widely and can include:
- Heredity
- Hormonal imbalances
- Medical conditions (e.g., thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases)
- Stressful events (e.g., illness, job loss)
The Hair Growth Cycle
Hair growth is a complex process that goes through four distinct phases:
- Anagen: Active growth phase
- Catagen: Transition phase
- Telogen: Resting phase
- Exogen: Shedding phase
When to Seek Treatment
Hair loss is considered alopecia when the rate of shedding exceeds the rate of growth. If you experience significant hair loss that persists or worsens, it's important to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and explore treatment options.
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