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Reasons for Hair Loss
Common Reasons For Hair Loss
There are many common reasons for hair loss in men and
women. The most common link is between DHT and male pattern baldness. This
is a male hormone that when present in large quantities is one of the
primary culprits for this condition.
Primary Causes
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) by itself is not unusual, because it occurs
naturally in both men and women. As a person ages, however, other hormones
that counteract it tend to decrease. This leaves DHT in relatively larger
quantities, which is the primary cause
of male pattern baldness. Over time the hormone tends to block
follicles, which is one of the main reasons why men start losing hair.
Diabetes & Medications
There can be other reasons for male pattern baldness besides DHT, though, so
the only reliable diagnosis is to see a doctor. Once underlying causes such
as diabetes, medications, or other disorders have been ruled out the doctor
can then suggest appropriate hair loss
products or treatments.
Genes
It is estimated that for up to 90% of men, the main reasons for their hair
loss are normal aging or hereditary male pattern baldness. In these cases,
the bald areas can typically be treated with either minoxidil (Rogaine) or
finasteride (Propecia), two medications that act to slow the rate of
thinning and stimulate regrowth. Rogaine is a topical medicine that is
commonly available over the counter, while Propecia, which prevents the
conversion of testosterone to DHT) is an oral medicine that requires a
prescription from a doctor.
It is important to note that the symptoms
of hair loss in women are generally attributed to different reasons than
male hair loss causes such as DHT.
Most women experience general thinning rather than noticeable bald areas,
and shedding or thinning most often occurs following pregnancy and during or
after menopause. Rogaine is the only FDA
approved female hair loss treatment while also effective in treating
pattern baldness.
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