Hair Loss

Hair Loss

The terms “balding” and “alopecia” are often used interchangeably to refer to hair loss, a condition that impacts both men and women. Hair loss can vary in severity, ranging from temporary shedding to permanent baldness. With nearly 50% of males and 25% of females facing some form of hair loss by age 50, understanding its nuances becomes crucial for addressing it effectively.

Understanding Hair Loss

Hair loss is a condition characterized by the partial or complete loss of hair from areas where it usually grows. It can affect the scalp, as well as other areas of the body, and can occur gradually or suddenly. Hair loss can be temporary or permanent and may result from a variety of factors. Understanding these types can provide insight into potential treatments and preventive measures.

Symptoms of Hair Loss

Hair loss has many forms, and each form has unique symptoms. It’s important to recognize these signs early to seek the proper treatment and manage the condition. Here are some common symptoms of hair loss:

General Thinning

Predominantly occurs on the top of the head and is most common in both genders as they age. Women might notice a broadening of their part, while men may see a receding hairline.

Patchy Bald Spots

These can affect the scalp, beard, or eyebrows and appear circular or patchy. These spots may feel itchy or painful before the hair falls out.

Sudden Loosening of Hair

A physical or emotional shock can cause hair to loosen. Handfuls of hair may come out when combing, washing, or even after gentle tugging.

Understanding these hair loss symptoms allows for early intervention, which can significantly improve the effectiveness of treatment options. If you notice these symptoms, contact your Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health physician. They will explore potential causes and make a plan tailored to your needs.

Types and Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss can stem from a myriad of causes, each influencing the scalp and hair growth in unique ways. By understanding these triggers, you can better address and manage the type of hair loss you’re experiencing. Here are some of the primary factors and types of hair loss:

Types of Hair Loss

• Androgenetic Alopecia: Often known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness, androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss. Characterized by gradual hair thinning, it is primarily driven by genetic predisposition and hormonal levels.
• Telogen Effluvium: This happens when the body suffers a big shock, like severe stress, major surgery, low levels of some vitamins or micronutrients like iron, ferritin, vitamin D etc. or significant life events. It can make many hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase at the same time. As a result, this condition often causes a lot of hair shedding. It usually happens several months after the triggering event and may last for several years, decreasing the volume and density of the hair.
• Alopecia Areata: Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, resulting in sudden hair loss in small, round patches on the scalp or other areas of the body.
• Traction Alopecia: Traction Alopecia is caused by repeated pulling or tension. This causes gradual hair loss, especially along the hairline or in areas under tension.
• Frontal fibrosing alopecia: Frontal fibrosing alopecia is an inflammatory reaction where the front and sides of the hairline recedes, makes the hairline move back and there is loss of the eyebrows and eyelashes.

Causes for Hair Loss

• Age & Genetics: As people age, hair naturally becomes thinner and more prone to shedding. This is due to changes in hormone levels and decreased hair follicle function. Genetics also strongly influence hair loss, especially in conditions like androgenetic alopecia. If a family member has experienced hair loss, you’re more likely to as well.
• Stress: Severe stress can cause a condition called telogen effluvium. Many hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase at the same time, causing hair shedding.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies are an inadequate intake of essential nutrients. These include iron, protein, vitamins (especially B and D vitamins), and minerals, such as zinc. Deficiencies can contribute to hair loss.
• Hairstyling Practices: Certain hairstyles, hair treatments, and hair care practices can cause hair breakage and loss. These include chemical straightening, excessive heat styling (curling or straightening), and tight ponytails or braids.

Hair Loss Treatment Options

Finding the proper hair loss treatment may seem challenging, but learning about the options, weighing factors, and hearing the advice from your physician can help you make the right choice. Consider the following hair loss treatment options:

• Medications: Medications such as topical minoxidil (Rogaine) and oral finasteride (Propecia) are FDA-approved for treating hair loss. Minoxidil is applied topically to the scalp and can help stimulate hair growth, while finasteride is taken orally to inhibit the hormone responsible for hair loss in men.
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy harnesses the properties of platelets from the patient’s blood to stimulate hair growth. Injecting a concentrated form of these platelets injected deep into the scalp to reach the bottom of the hair follicle, may stimulate a specialized population of cells named dermal papilla cells, which play a critical role in hair growth, activating dormant hair follicles, improving blood circulation, and promoting the growth of new hair strands, resulting in thicker, denser hair over time. We perform this procedure in our Wiregrass location. Please call our office so we can help you schedule your treatment.

While not performed at Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health, other treatment options that may be available include hair transplant surgery, low-level laser therapy and scalp micropigmentation.

Prevention Strategies

To effectively minimize the risk of hair loss, creating a treatment and strategy plan with your physician is crucial. This approach involves dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and specific hair care practices. Here’s how you can proactively manage and possibly prevent hair loss:

• Balanced Nutrition: Incorporate a Mediterranean diet rich in raw vegetables, fresh herbs, and lean proteins. Foods like fish, chicken, eggs, and legumes provide essential proteins that support hair strength and growth.
• Vital Vitamins and Minerals: Ensure your diet includes sufficient iron, zinc, and vitamins A, B, C, D, and E. A daily multivitamin can complement your nutritional intake, supporting overall hair health.
• Stress Management: Engage in regular physical activity and mindfulness practices like yoga or meditation to manage stress, a known trigger for hair loss.
• Avoid Harsh Hairstyles and Handling: Choose hairstyles that do not pull the hair tightly, such as loose braids or natural styles, to prevent traction alopecia, and use a soft brush and avoid over-styling with heat tools. Opt for natural drying and styling methods when possible.
• Regular Washing and Conditioning: Cleanse your scalp with a mild shampoo and follow up with a hydrating conditioner to maintain scalp health and prevent inflammation which will worsen hair loss.

Integrating these strategies into your daily routine can safeguard your hair health and potentially reduce hair loss.

Our Approach to Hair Loss Prevention

Understanding the causes and available treatments for hair loss is essential for anyone experiencing this concern. Whether it’s genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, or other factors contributing to your hair loss, seeking professional guidance is crucial. Contact Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health today for exceptional healthcare services and personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced team of specialists, including Dr. Maria Hicks, MD in Wiregrass and Zephyrhills and Ellen Lockwood, PA-C in Carrollwood, is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for those experiencing hair loss. With a focus on quality and patient satisfaction, we strive to deliver the best possible outcomes for every patient we serve. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards confidently addressing your hair loss concerns.