Medical treatments have been known to lead to loss of hair. This typically includes chemotherapy, which can cause hair cells to cease dividing with the hair becoming weaker and thinner. This usually occurs between 1 and 3 weeks after the beginning of treatment with the hair growing back after the completion of the therapy.
Another potential cause of hair loss is a thyroid condition. An underactive or overactive thyroid has been attributed to difficulties with hair growth. However, there are certainly medication which can treat this type of hair loss. Therefore, a physician should be consulted if loss of hair occurs.
Another condition, referred to as Alopecia Areata, leads to loss of hairstrands. In this disorder, patches typically fall out of the head resulting in smooth bald areas. Although the cause is not yet known, topical creams and other treatments along with light therapy have been successful in treating most patients.
Women who are taking birth control may also experience baldness although it has been found that the majority of these women were genetically predisposed to undergo hair thinning. Once the dosage of birth control is stopped, hair thinning typically ceases.
Overdoses and deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients may also lead to balding. High Vitamin A has been known to contribute to balding as has deficiencies in iron. It is common for women who are menstruating to have low iron while other individuals simply do not consume enough dietary iron or have a condition which prevents them from absorbing the nutrient in sufficient quantities.
Low levels of protein can also cause baldness as the body may take protein from the hair, forcing the hair to enter resting instead of growing phase. This loss of hair is not permanent and will cease after protein in the diet is increased.
Ringworm, a fungal infection, can also cause balding. The hair becomes broken and the scalp often swells and becomes red. Ringworm is quote contagious and is most common within children. Oral medications are typically used to treat the condition. As is the case with dietary deficiencies, the loss of hair is temporary.
If hair is not properly cared for, it can become thin as well. Most hair treatments such as highlighting, straightening, perming and coloring can lead to loss of hair if done incorrectly. Improper combinations of chemicals can lead to weakening and breaking of the hair. Additionally, if hair treatments are attempted too often, this could lead to damage as well. Overbrushing of the hair and excessive shampooing can also become problematic. Brushing is particularly damaging when the hair is wet. However, as long as you are careful to take good care of your hair and treat it gently, there is no reason why hair care should result in damaged hair.
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