What’s the Difference Between Normal Hair Loss and a Medical Problem?
Sydney, NSW (PRWEB) February 10, 2015 -- In many cases, the difference between what constitutes ‘normal’ hair loss and medically significant hair loss may be obvious; however, new research has uncovered new forms of hair loss as well as new definitions of ‘normal’.
“It’s worth dispelling some of the myths associated with hair loss as many women may not realise they really have nothing to worry about,” says Trained Nurse and Hair Loss expert Bambi Staveley.
“We talk to women all the time who ask this particular question. So we have gathered all the relevant information and outline below the main differences between ‘normal’ hair loss and what might be considered early stages of thinning hair.”
‘Normal’ Hair Loss
• 100 Hairs a Day
According to dermatologist and hair loss expert, Dr Jerry Shapiro, (2007) (http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMcp072110), it is normal to lose anything up to 100 hairs a day. As hair goes through a cycle of growth followed by a dormant stage followed by falling out, some hair will be falling out every day. It is therefore perfectly normal for women to notice a steady number of hairs falling out without cause for concern.
• Seasonal Hair Loss
According to hair loss research in the U.K by Randall & Ebling (2006) (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2133.1991.tb00423.x/abstract), some women may also experience seasonal hair loss. That is, there is a time of year when more hair falls out than in other times of the year. Mrs Staveley continues, “I’ve spoken to many women who notice hair loss at specific times of year. The research hasn’t concluded why this might be the case yet, but it has certainly suggested that it might be more common than experts initially realised.”
Mrs Staveley recommends women keep a diary to track hair loss if they believe seasonal hair loss may be affecting them.
• Hair Washing and Brushing
When washing or brushing hair it is normal to notice hair fall and this is when some people may become concerned. All day every day there are some strands of hair that have ceased to be attached, but they often don’t appear or fall completely until hair is washed or brushed. Mrs Staveley says this may become more noticeable the longer the period between washes.
“Though hair washing less often is beneficial in the prevention of breakage, women who do this may mistakenly believe they are losing more hair, when in fact, they are just washing or brushing out the fallen hairs less often.”
Abnormal Hair Loss
• Noticeable Increase in Amount of Hair Lost
If a sudden increase in hair loss is noticed and can’t be explained by any of the reasons above, there may be a medical problem.
Mrs Staveley recommends checking fallen hairs to determine whether the roots are attached.
“Hair that has no root attached is likely to have broken off and although this is also a form of hair loss, breakage is a relatively simple problem to solve. If there is a root attached and there appears to be an increase in the amount of hair being shed, I always recommend women see their GP.”
There are a number of blood tests that a GP can order to test for common causes of hair loss in women and they may also refer a patient to a specialist.
It is worth noting that hair loss due to cancer and other potent drugs may result in hair fall that does not have the root attached.
• Hair Lost in Patches
If hair is being lost in patches, it is likely to be a medical problem or the onset of age related hair loss. Common thinning areas for women are the front of the head, the back of the head and the part line. Upon noticing a discernible decrease in density in these areas, women should consult their GP.
• Scalp Discomfort
If hair loss has increased and is accompanied by a sore or itchy scalp, it’s a good idea to see a GP as a skin condition may be the underlying cause.
• Hair Loss is Accompanied by Other Symptoms
Common causes of hair loss include vitamin and mineral deficiencies which are often accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue. Hair loss can also be a symptom of illness, especially auto-immune diseases, so hair loss should not be taken lightly.
Bambi Staveley is a former registered nurse, hair loss expert and Managing Director of BoostnBlend, a hair loss concealer for women.
Bambi Staveley, Balance Group, http://www.boostnblend.com, +61 414889486, [email protected]
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