SUDDEN HAIR LOSS IN WOMEN
Hair loss is scary at the best of times, however, when it’s sudden, you’ll be even more alarmed and shocked. Women can suffer from thinning and shedding at various different points in their lives, likewise, some won’t suffer from it at all.
Yet what happens if you are one of the forty percent, yes it’s that high, of women who suffer from this traumatic event?
What are the causes and additionally, what are the remedies?
What can cause sudden hair loss in women?
- Genetics is one of the common reasons for hair loss in women. Hair loss can vary according to populations and cultures, yet it’s a proven fact that hair loss can be hereditary. It’s widely believed that this is down to the Androgen Receptor gene that is situated on the X chromosome that you inherit from your mother. If there is a significant amount of hair loss within your family, you may find that this can be the cause of your sudden hair loss you’re experiencing yourself.
- Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder. It affects nearly 5 million people over the United States and can be a problem for both men or women. The autoimmune disorder will attack the immune system which, in turn, will attack the hair follicles causing sudden loss of hair. It’s causes are unknown, however, there is belief that the trigger may be illness or stress. To diagnose your condition, your doctor will run tests to rule out any other underlying causes and should it be a clear case of Alopecia areata, it’s possible that he or she will prescribe you with Minoxodil.
- Scalp conditions such as fungal infections or maybe ring worm or psoriasis may also be another cause for sudden hair loss. If you are suffering with one of these disorders, a biopsy will be necessary to establish the condition that you have. Once the underlying problem has been discovered it can be treated accordingly which may include anti-fungal creams or medicated shampoos.
- Hyperthyroidism is also known as an underactive thyroid. Your thyroid controls your metabolism, meaning that if it’s underactive you’ll suddenly begin to be nervous, irritable and inexplicably begin to lose weight. As your metabolism speeds up, you may well experience hair loss. Should you be experiencing these symptoms, a blood test will measure your thyroid stimulating hormone. Once diagnosed, thyroid hormone medication will be administered and your hair should begin to regain normal growth.
- Postpartum hair loss is another form of sudden hair loss that is not only common but also temporary. Whilst pregnant, there’s a substantial increase in your level of the hormone estrogen. This is the hormone that stimulates the actual growth of your hair. Once you have given birth, your estrogen begins to regain normal levels. At this point, you will begin to experience temporary hair loss. To combat the effects, try to use shampoo that contains biotin which will strengthen your hair and evenutally, after around twelve months, it should return back to normal.
- Lack of protein may also result in the loss of hair amongst the female population. Not receiving enough protein in your daily diet may cause your body to ration your portion of protein and literally shut down your hair growth cycle. If this is going to happen, it will be approximately three months after your fall in protein has taken place. If you are a vegan or vegetarian, it’s vital that you introduce protein rich foods into your regime, such as quinoa, nuts and dairy produce.
- Overstyling is another cause of hair loss that requires little explanaition. Using heat products such as irons or blasts from red hot hairdryers were never going to assist your hair and additionally, it’s advisable to take it easy on the braiding. It can cause breakages at the root level and occasionally damage the hair follicles deeming them unreparable.
