What causes hair loss?
It is normal to shed some hair every day. Hair loss becomes a concern when you notice thinning, a widening part, a receding hairline or bald patches. Common causes include:
- Hereditary hair loss, which affects both men and women
- Hormone changes, such as after pregnancy or during menopause
- Thyroid problems
- Low iron or other nutrition problems
- Major stress, surgery or illness, which can cause heavy shedding a few months later
- Certain medicines
- Alopecia areata, an immune condition that causes round bald patches
- Tight hairstyles that pull on the hair over time
How does a doctor find the cause of hair loss?
Dr. Le asks when the hair loss started, whether it is general thinning or patches, and about recent illness, stress, pregnancy, diet and medicines. He examines your scalp and hair.
Blood tests can check for common medical causes, such as thyroid problems and low iron. Because a family doctor looks at your whole health, hair loss can sometimes point to another condition that also needs care.
What treatments are available?
Treatment depends on the cause. When hair loss comes from a medical problem such as low iron or a thyroid condition, treating that problem often helps hair grow back. Shedding after stress or illness frequently improves on its own with time.
For hereditary hair loss, medicines applied to the scalp or taken by mouth can slow thinning and help some people regrow hair. These treatments take several months to show results and usually need to be continued to keep them. We will explain the options, likely results and possible side effects so you can decide what is right for you.
When is a specialist needed?
Many causes of hair loss can be evaluated and managed at Westwood Family Medicine in Bluefield. If your hair loss is unusual, comes with scarring or a painful scalp, or does not respond to treatment, Dr. Le will refer you to a dermatologist.
What can you do at home to protect your hair?
Gentle hair care can reduce breakage while you look for the cause. Avoid tight ponytails, braids and extensions that pull on the scalp, and limit harsh chemical treatments and high heat from styling tools.
Eat a balanced diet with enough protein, and talk with your doctor before taking supplements for hair growth, since some can interfere with lab tests or cause side effects when taken in large amounts.
What to expect at your visit
- Dr. Le asks about your hair loss, health history and medicines.
- He examines your scalp and the pattern of hair loss.
- Blood tests may be ordered to check thyroid, iron and other causes.
- You review the results together and choose a treatment plan.
Common questions about hair loss treatment
Can hair loss be caused by a thyroid problem?
Yes. Both an underactive and an overactive thyroid can cause hair to thin across the whole scalp. A simple blood test can check your thyroid. When the thyroid problem is treated, hair often grows back over several months, though it may take time to see a difference.
Can low iron cause hair loss?
Low iron is a common cause of hair shedding, especially in women with heavy periods. A blood test can check your iron levels. If they are low, your doctor can look for the reason and recommend treatment. Do not start iron pills without checking with your doctor, since too much iron can be harmful.
How long does hair loss treatment take to work?
Hair grows slowly, so most treatments take at least three to six months before you notice a change, and sometimes longer. Shedding can even increase briefly when some treatments begin. Taking photos of your scalp every few months can help you and your doctor judge whether treatment is working.
Learn more from trusted sources
This page is general health information, not medical advice for your situation. Talk with Dr. Le about your own care.