Hair thinning and loss affect the overwhelming majority of us over time. What starts for many men as simply signs of a receding hairline or the development of thinning around the crown of the head in their 30s leads to being nearly bald in their 60s. While we can make good choices and encourage healthy habits such as getting a full night’s sleep regularly, proper exercise, and a diet full of essential nutrients to promote hair health, it can only reduce our risks of premature hair loss, not eliminate male or female pattern baldness entirely.
That said, there are a number of causes of hair loss due to illness or disease that could be treated to prevent premature hair loss. So, which of these ailments are ones that we should look for hair loss being a symptom, and how can we prevent it from becoming permanent?
What Illnesses Cause Hair Loss?
A form of hair loss known as Telogen Effluvium could be the result of a high fever, a serious infection, or even childbirth, and how it affects hormone balance. This type of hair loss is specifically related to your body enduring high levels of stress, which causes rapid hair loss. This kind of hair loss is temporary, with hair often growing back within three to six months after the stressor has been properly addressed.
Sometimes it isn’t an illness that’s responsible for hair loss, but rather it’s a side effect of a prescription drug. Medications such as lithium, warfarin, and amphetamines could potentially lead to hair loss. Additionally, treatments such as chemotherapy related to fighting cancer can also lead to hair loss.
In most of these instances the hair loss is temporary and will begin the process of reversing itself once treatment has ended. The drugs and treatments listed above are, in many cases, lifesaving or at the very least increase the quality of life for the patient. Do not stop taking any medications or treatments without consulting your doctor.
What Autoimmune Diseases Can Cause Hair Loss?
Another cause of hair loss is rooted in some autoimmune diseases. Alopecia areata, for example, is an autoimmune disease that specifically causes hair to fall out in patches.
Other autoimmune diseases that could lead to hair loss include both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Your thyroid is very important to your body’s hormonal balance which extends far beyond your hair health and, in most instances, will require medication to balance hormone levels at a certain point.
PNW Hair Restoration Will Work With You To Restore Your Hair
While we should all celebrate hair regrowth after a bout with an illness or disease as we regain our health, male and female pattern baldness still loom large in our futures and in many of our presents. We offer all types of hair transplant harvesting and implantation methods, including the ARTA® Robotic Hair Transplant System. In fact, we are the only facility in Oregon to utilize the most highly recommended method for FUE hair transplants.
We also offer a full range of non-surgical hair loss treatments, so we have the best solution for your specific hair loss needs. Dr. Higgins will always meet with prospective clients in person to explore your options and best chart your path to hair restoration. Contact us today to learn more.
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