What illnesses cause hair loss?
What illnesses cause hair loss? -Numerous diseases and medical situations can lead to hair loss. Common diseases that might result in hair loss include the following:
- Alopecia Areata: This is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the hair follicles, causing hair loss in patches.
- Androgenetic Alopecia: Also known as male or female pattern baldness, this condition is hereditary and can lead to gradual hair thinning and baldness.
- Telogen Effluvium: This condition occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase (telogen) simultaneously, leading to excessive hair shedding. It can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, illness, surgery, pregnancy, or certain medications.
- Trichotillomania: This is a psychological disorder where a person has an irresistible urge to pull out their hair, leading to hair loss.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and cause hair loss.
- Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid gland can also contribute to hair loss.
- Scalp Infections: Fungal or bacterial infections of the scalp can cause hair loss if left untreated.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, biotin, or vitamin D can affect hair growth and lead to hair loss.
- Chemotherapy: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy can cause temporary hair loss as they target rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles.
- Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can lead to hair loss, particularly in round patches.
- Cushing’s Syndrome: Excess production of cortisol in the body can cause hair thinning and loss.
- Anemia: Severe cases of iron deficiency anemia can lead to hair loss.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can lead to hair loss in women.
- Syphilis: In its advanced stages, syphilis can cause hair loss.
- Tinea Capitis: A fungal infection of the scalp that can cause hair loss and skin lesions.
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To choose the best course of action for treating hair loss, it is crucial to understand the underlying cause. It’s best to see a dermatologist or healthcare provider if you’re losing a lot of hair suddenly or noticeably for an accurate evaluation and diagnosis.
