Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Diagnosis, Research & Management
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects individuals with ovaries, often during their reproductive years. Characterized
Women Health > Female Hair Thinning
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Experiencing hair thinning can be deeply distressing, especially when the cause is not immediately clear. Our experienced doctors understand the significant impact this can have on your well-being.
Therefore, we take the necessary time to discuss your unique circumstances, carefully review your medical history, and conduct a thorough examination to identify the underlying cause.
Female hair loss can stem from various factors including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies, and lifestyle practices. Androgenetic alopecia causes hereditary thinning on the scalp. Hormonal changes like menopause, pregnancy, childbirth, and PCOS affect hair health, as do thyroid disorders. Medical conditions such as alopecia areata, scalp infections, lupus, and diabetes can also lead to hair loss.
Nutritional issues like iron deficiency anaemia and lack of vitamins D, B12, or biotin also play a role. Stress can cause telogen effluvium, a type of hair loss. Certain medications, including those for cancer, hypertension, arthritis, and depression, contribute to hair loss. Additionally, hairstyling practices like tight hairstyles and chemical treatments damage hair, as well as ageing and smoking further exacerbate hair loss by affecting blood flow to the scalp and damaging follicles.
Typical hair loss signs include increased shedding, where noticeable hair loss occurs during washing or brushing. Thinning of hair density, particularly on the crown or top of the scalp, can also occur, making the scalp more visible.
Hair may feel less thick and robust, contributing to reduced hair volume. Patchy bald spots may develop where hair ceases to grow altogether. Changes in hair texture, such as hair becoming finer or more brittle, can also be observed.
Additionally, scalp itching or discomfort may arise, often associated with specific scalp conditions or inflammation. These symptoms can vary widely depending on the underlying cause of hair loss, which may include genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, or lifestyle factors.
Hair thinning during pregnancy and postpartum is a common concern among many women. Fortunately, more often than not, hair thinning during this period is temporary.
It is primarily caused by hormonal changes and nutritional factors. During pregnancy, heightened oestrogen levels extend the hair growth phase (anagen phase), often resulting in thicker hair. However, after childbirth, as oestrogen levels decline, more hair follicles transition into the resting phase (telogen phase), leading to increased hair shedding.
Additionally, nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy, due to increased nutrient demands, can further impact hair health, exacerbating the thinning process.
In addition to medical treatments, making lifestyle adjustments can support healthy hair growth:
Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.
On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.
You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.
Note any changes in your hair, such as texture, density, or areas of thinning, and be ready to discuss your current hair care routine, including products used and any recent changes during your appointment.
During your appointment, we will assess your iron levels, as low iron can contribute to hair thinning. Additionally, we will review your diet to ensure you are consuming adequate protein, which is essential for hair health. Our doctor will also discuss your overall nutrition, highlighting the benefits of increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables, oily fish, nuts, and fruit, as these can often enhance hair strength.
As soon as we receive your results, we will be in touch to discuss your results and possible treatment options. The outcomes of hair thinning treatment can differ based on the specific treatment administered.
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