Beginning Research Into Causes For Hair Loss

For millions of people across the world, thinning hair is a significant psychological problem. If you happen to be one of the people who suffer from hair loss, what are your options for treatment? Where do you turn? Is there hope?

Determining the cause of alopecia is the first step to finding appropriate treatment. Hair loss can be genetic, due to underlying medical diseases, result from body stress, or may indicate a more life threatening cancer. Treatment is as varied as the causes for hair loss and each treatment is tailored to the underlying problem.

The best person to consult first for a reason for hair loss is going to be a primary care physician. Often, a complete history and physical examination can provide clues to the cause for alopecia. In some more difficult cases, referral to a hair specialist or dermatologist may be necessary to find answers. Blood tests or even a biopsy may be needed to make a definitive diagnosis. These can often be performed by primary care physicians as well.

After a diagnosis for alopecia has been established, attention can be turned to treatment. While the treatments for hair loss are as varied as the causes, some are quite effective. Treatment may be aimed at correcting an underlying medical condition, such as thyroid dysfunction; steroids injections; or surgical removal of areas of hair loss. While not all treatments will be effective at restoring hair growth, some treatments are aimed at preventing future loss - such as those treatments for androgenic alopecia. In some cases, medical treatment combined with hair restoration surgery may be necessary to obtain the best results.

There are many products which are marketed to reduce or cure hair loss. Few have been scientifically tested. There are herbs and dietary supplements which have shown promise with reversing hair loss but caution must always be taken to ensure that the supplements do not interfere with other medications a patient may be taking. Talking with your doctor before starting any treatment, including over the counter medications, is always advisable.