For men and women, hair loss occurs in different ways and is predominantly dictated by the underlying cause of it. One can either experience it gradually or suddenly. Moreover, at times, hair loss not just impacts the scalp, but can also have an impact on the whole body. Here, we’ll discuss the common symptoms and treatments for hair loss.
Symptoms
- Scaling patches, which appear all through the scalp
It is typically a symptom of ringworm. As a result of it, you might experience redness, broken hair, oozing, or swelling.
- Gradual thinning, which starts at the top
It is the most prevalent form of hair loss and tends to appear as you age.
- Circular bald spots
There are a few people who experience hair loss in circular patches. In addition to the scalp, it might also be seen on your eyebrows or the beard. It might make the skin itchy and cause some pain prior to the hair fall.
- Sudden loss of hair
At times, a person experiences a sudden emotional or physical shock, which can result in hair loss. It is a temporary condition and usually results in the thinning of the hair.
- Hair loss on the entire body
A few medical treatments or conditions can lead to loss of hair throughout the body. For instance, in chemotherapy treatment, you might experience severe hair loss. However, the hair will grow back again once the procedure causing it is stopped.
Treatment
There are several treatments available for hair loss, which will either slow down the process or reverse it. The two key treatments of this condition include surgery and medications. FDA, which is the Food and Drug Administration, now allows the use of a low-beam laser device to treat hair loss in women and men. This treatment accentuates the hair density.
- Hair transplant
With this surgery, the cosmetic surgeon or the dermatologist will take some hair from the area on your scalp that has more hair. This hair will then be transplanted to your bald spots. It is a slightly painful treatment but needs no hospitalization. You’ll be under the effect of a sedative to bear the pain. Some common risks associated with this treatment include infection, bruising, bleeding, and swelling. For the desired effect, you’ll have to undergo more than one surgery.
Medication
Some of the medications available to treat hereditary hair loss include:
- Minoxidil
You can find this liquid medication either in shampoos or in foam. Men should use this product at least twice a day, and women should use it at least once a day for the best results.
- Finasteride
It is a popular prescription medication for men that slows down the hair loss process. Some men even experience newer hair growth with it.
- Other medicines
You can also take oral medications like dutasteride and spironolactone to treat hair loss.
It is unwise to self-medicate and it is best to consult your doctor or a hair specialist to understand the best way to treat the symptoms of hair loss.
