Things You Didn’t Know Could Cause Hair Loss
Everybody knows that hair loss is related to your family history as well as being an inevitable effect of aging. But did you know that wearing your hair too tightly in cornrows or braids can also result in hair loss? Here are some of the lesser-known causes of hair loss that you should be familiar with.
Traction alopecia :-
This is the hair loss condition that is caused by pulling your hair back too tightly. When you do this too often, it can cause you to lose your hair gradually, particularly at the hairline. It is a condition that is seen in men who regularly wear hairpieces that pull on the scalp in the same place for a long time. In addition, the overuse of certain chemical treatments such as hair straighteners and relaxants may also be the root cause of hair loss for women.
Tinea capitis :-
This is a fungal infection that is also known as ‘ringworm of the scalp’ and causes bald spots on the scalp where hair has broken off and which has black spots. In addition, the areas that are affected may be very itchy.
Thyroid disorder :-
The thyroid is a gland that is vital in regulating the body’s metabolism by releasing hormones. When the hormones in the thyroid go out of balance, resulting in hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, it can cause
hair to fall out. Hyperthyroidism can be caused by autoimmune diseases and birth abnormalities. However, this symptom is temporary and once the condition has been treated, your hair will start to grow back.
Iron deficiency :-
Iron is a vital nutrient that your body needs since it is used to make hemoglobin, a substance that helps your blood circulate oxygen throughout your system. Some studies have shown that iron deficiency may
be linked to hair loss, and the condition may be reversed if the deficiency is treated with iron supplements. However, you should consult with a doctor to see if you suffer from the condition and not self-medicate
by taking supplements on your own.
Extreme Stress :-
While it is a myth that the stress that we encounter in our everyday life can cause our hair to fall out, it is true that extreme trauma or stress can cause hair loss. This condition is called telogen effluvium
and it can be brought out by childbirth, prolonged illness or high fever, or a traumatic life event.
Autoimmune disorders :-
This condition arises when your body’s immune system starts attacking healthy cells rather than diseased ones. When healthy scalp cells are attacked, it can cause hair loss of various kinds, such as telogen
effluvium, where the natural growth cycle of the hair is disrupted, and cicatricial alopecia, which results in permanent hair loss.
Medication :-
There are a number of medications where hair loss is a side effect. For example, some older birth control pills, anti-thyroid medicines, beta-blockers, anti-coagulants and anti-convulsants can cause telogen
effluvium. If you experience this condition, you should consult with your doctor to see if he can recommend alternative medications.
Nutrient deficiency :-
We have already discussed how iron deficiency can cause hair loss. But the lack of many other nutrients can also cause hair to fall out. For example, if your body does not have enough protein, it can shift
hair growth to the resting phase to conserve its supplies of this nutrient.
Trichotillomania :-
This is a rare psychological disorder in which a person feels the compulsion to pull out their hair. Trichotillomania can be triggered by factors such as emotional distress and depression. The stress of pulling
on the hair can eventually cause hair loss and baldness.
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